With filings now complete, local candidates are officially on the ballot for the 2026 election cycle in Jeff Davis County. Several incumbents and new challengers have entered races for county office, setting up contests ahead of the March 3, 2026 primary election, a possible May 26 runoff, and the Nov. 3, 2026 general election.
County Judge
Curtis E. Evans, the incumbent Jeff Davis County Judge, has filed for re-election and will seek another term. He is being challenged by Buster Mills in what is shaping up as a contested Republican primary for the county’s top administrative position.
County Judge is a statutory office responsible for presiding over commissioners court meetings and overseeing county operations, budgets, and emergency management.
County Commissioner, Precinct 2
Roy F. Hurley, the incumbent County Commissioner for Precinct 2, has filed to retain his seat. At the time of filing certification, Hurley appears to be unopposed in the primary for Precinct 2, meaning he would likely advance directly to the general election.
Precinct 2 covers much of the northeastern part of the county, and the commissioner serves as one of four elected members of the commissioners court.
County Commissioner, Precinct 4
Albert W. Miller has filed for County Commissioner in Precinct 4. Miller is stepping into the race for the position representing the southwestern area of Jeff Davis County. Current Precinct 4 incumbent status was not listed in the filings provided, suggesting the seat may be open or that the incumbent is not seeking another term.
District and County Clerk
Jennifer L. Wright, the incumbent District and County Clerk, has filed for re-election. Wright holds a combined role that manages court records, official documents, and vital records for both county and district courts.
No opponent is listed at this stage, meaning Wright may run unchallenged in the primary.
Jeff Davis County Treasurer
The race for Jeff Davis County Treasurer is shaping up as a contested primary. Dawn E. Kitts, the incumbent county treasurer, has filed for re-election, as has Brittany R. Escobedo, setting up a head-to-head contest between the two candidates.
County Treasurer is an elected position responsible for handling county funds, receipts, and financial reporting.
Republican Party Leadership Contest
In addition to county offices, Jason G. “Jake” Knobloch has filed for Republican County Chair. This position leads party organization for county precincts and coordinates activities ahead of primary elections. The chair race will be decided among Republican voters in the March primary.
Key Election Dates for Voters
Primary Election: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 — Voters will select party nominees for county, state, and national offices. Primary Runoff (if needed): Tuesday, May 26, 2026 — If no candidate receives a majority in the primary, a runoff will be held. General Election: Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026 — Nominees from all parties and qualified independents will appear on the ballot.
Early voting for the March primary typically begins in mid-to-late February. Jeff Davis County election officials are expected to announce polling locations and hours as the election season approaches.
