HOUSTON, TX - On November 7, Patricia Harless, longtime independent used automobile dealer of Houston was elected to the Texas House of Representatives. She will represent District 126-Houston. In addition to a lifetime of community service, Harless is also known for her many contributions to the automobile industry.

Patricia grew up in the automobile business. Her parents, Fred and Pearl Fincher, started Fred Fincher Motors forty-seven years ago. At the age of 10, Patricia got her first job cleaning cars at her parents’ dealership. Over the years she worked her way up in the business, progressing to Chief Financial Officer (CFO). After her father’s death in 1996, Patricia purchased the dealership. In 1999, Patricia purchased a Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, & Pontiac Franchise in Madisonville Texas, which she sold in 2003.

In addition to running a successful business, Harless is an active member of the Texas Independent Automobile Dealers Association (TIADA) and HIADA. Harless was also active in Texas Automobile Dealers Association (TADA), and NADA. She served as President of TIADA from 2001 to 2002. In 1999, Patricia was honored as Texas Quality Dealer by TIADA.

In 1998, Harless was appointed by then Governor George W. Bush to serve on the Texas Motor Vehicle Board. She was reappointed in 2001 by Governor Rick Perry, serving until 2005.

Patricia’s dedication to her family, her community, her church, and her industry provide a strong foundation for service in the Texas Legislature. Her understanding of the automobile industry, as well as the contributions that automobile dealers make to our communities and our state, will enhance her ability to be an effective public servant.