While his two Panhandle colleagues in the Texas House of Representatives skate through to re-election every other year, Swinford, R-Dumas, seems to keep drawing opponents.

Poor guy.

I recognize it’s still early in the filing period for the 2010 campaign, but as of today, only Swinford has an opponent next year: Abel Bosquez of Amarillo, a former Potter County Democratic chair. Heck, there might be others filing before the deadline passes.

But also as of today, Reps. John Smithee of Amarillo and Warren Chisum of Pampa are without foes. They, too, could draw opponents before the deadline?

I’m betting they won’t.

I’ve long said that incumbents need opposition, no matter how accomplished they may be. They should have to explain their record. A stout challenger who is able to make the incumbent answer for his or her key votes or decisions serves the public well, even if the challenger’s bid falls short.

Once again, though, Rep. Swinford is going to have to answer for his record. That’s good news — even though Swinford would disagree.