Dallas Morning News Endorses Danielle Clark For 301st District Court Primary
The Dallas Morning News Editorial Board has officially recommended Danielle Clark in the Democratic primary race for the 301st District Court. The board selected Clark over fellow candidate Twana Allen, describing the contest as a “close call” between two qualified individuals vying for the family court bench in Dallas County. The endorsement ultimately prioritizes Clark’s specific judicial experience over Allen’s extensive background in private practice.
Danielle Clark has served as an associate judge for the 330th District Court since 2015. The editorial board highlighted her decade of experience on the bench, particularly her work handling pre-trial motions and expediting cases, as a decisive factor for the recommendation. Clark’s reputation is supported by the Dallas Bar Association’s 2025 Judicial Evaluation Poll, where 76% of respondents rated her overall performance as either excellent or acceptable. A graduate of Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Clark stated her judicial philosophy is driven by a desire “to try and save your family.” The board further commended her efforts to accommodate pro se litigants—those representing themselves without attorneys—by dedicating specific hearing times to their cases while adhering to ethical restraints.
Twana Allen, the opposing candidate, presents a strong resume with over 20 years of experience as a practicing family law attorney. While the board favored Clark’s tenure as an associate judge, they explicitly recognized Allen’s strengths, specifically her work as a mediator. The editorial noted that Allen offers a valuable perspective “through the lens of families,” providing insight into how court orders practically impact the daily lives of litigants. Allen contends that her deep understanding of family dynamics from the attorney’s side is a critical asset for the bench. However, the board concluded that Clark’s direct experience managing court dockets provided a superior edge for the role.
The 301st District Court is a specialized state court in Dallas County with jurisdiction over family law matters, including divorce proceedings, child custody disputes, and protective orders. The outcome of this Democratic primary will determine the party’s nominee for the general election. The editorial board emphasized that while both candidates possess the necessary judicial temperament for the position, the operational efficiency and administrative experience Clark brings from the 330th District Court make her the preferable choice for voters.
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