Gregg County vs. Sutton County
Piney Woods Industry & Edwards Plateau Quiet
Gregg County and Sutton County sit in two very different corners of Texas; one among the pine forests of East Texas, the other on the limestone hills of the Edwards Plateau. Gregg County, anchored by Longview, blends manufacturing, energy, transportation, and education in a bustling regional hub. Sutton County, centered on Sonora, is shaped by ranching, caves, and the rugged beauty of West Texas. Together, these counties reflect two sides of Texas grit: industrial growth and frontier tradition.
Gregg County (Population Approx. 120,000)
Longview is a regional economic driver for East Texas, with strong sectors in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and energy. The city is known for its arts scene, parks, and annual events that draw thousands. Challenges include upgrading aging infrastructure, maintaining workforce pipelines, and ensuring growth remains balanced and equitable.
Sutton County (Population Approx. 4,000)
Sonora sits near the intersection of I-10 and U.S. 277, where ranching, hunting, and small businesses define the local economy. The region is best known for the Sonora Caverns, one of the most remarkable cave systems in Texas. Challenges include drought conditions, rural healthcare access, and supporting small-town schools.
Why It Matters
These two counties prove that whether a community is shaped by factory floors or ranch fences, Texans share the same desire for secure livelihoods, good schools, and a responsive government.
Why Forward
Forward believes Texas benefits when both industrial hubs and rural communities have meaningful representation.
In Gregg County, open primaries and Ranked Choice Voting help elect consensus-minded leaders prepared to address economic diversification, infrastructure upgrades, and education partnerships.
In Sutton County, these same reforms protect rural voices in statewide elections, ensuring that ranchers, hunters, and small-business owners aren’t overlooked. Ranked Choice Voting ensures consensus outcomes even with small populations.
Forward’s mission of trust, transparency, and teamwork strengthens both counties; from Longview’s factories to Sonora’s ranch gates.
Did You Know…
Longview hosts one of the largest hot-air balloon festivals in the U.S.
The Caverns of Sonora are considered among the most beautiful show caves in North America.
Why Texans Love Living Here
Gregg County residents love the culture, economic opportunity, and Piney Woods scenery. Sutton County residents love their wide-open landscapes, peaceful nights, and deep ties to the land.
Key Events That Bring Neighbors Together
People & Tech Created This
The profiles and shared challenges were gathered from Texas Forward Party supporters and written using ChatGPT and Gemini models to combine verified public data, official county/state sources, and general knowledge from Texas historical and government records:
