There are a number of offices that are elected in Texas. Find out more about what the majority of the offices do and the issues they impact.
GOVERNOR: The governor is the chief executive of the state. Outlines budget recommendations for the Legislature and leads the state and its military forces during emergencies. Signs or vetoes bills. Can call special sessions for lawmakers. Makes appointments to hundreds of government entities.
LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR: The lieutenant governor, the second-highest state executive, presides over the state Senate. Often regarded as the most powerful statewide elected office because the lieutenant governor is in charge of the legislative agenda and standing committees.
ATTORNEY GENERAL: The state’s top attorney. The office is responsible for representing the state in legal matters, primarily in civil litigation.
COMPTROLLER OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS: The state’s accountant and chief financial officer. Responsible for collecting state fees and taxes. Manages hundreds of state contracts on behalf of other agencies and provides forecasts on the state’s revenue and economy for the Legislature.
COMMISSIONER OF THE GENERAL LAND OFFICE: Manages 13 million acres of state land. Administers federal aid after natural disasters, manages the Alamo and oversees investments from the Permanent School Fund to help fund public education. Also provides support for veterans through the Veterans Land Board.
COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE: Supports farmers and regulates the agriculture industry. Administers school lunch programs and other programs to help address hunger and promote nutrition.
RAILROAD COMMISSIONER: Regulates oil, gas, coal and pipelines in the state. Oversees gas utility services and rates, as well as coal and uranium mining in the state.
JUSTICE, SUPREME COURT: The Supreme Court of Texas is the court of last resort for civil matters in the state.
JUDGE, COURT OF CRIMINAL APPEALS: The Court of Criminal Appeals is Texas's highest court for criminal cases.
MEMBER, STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION: Sets curriculum standards. Reviews and adopts instructional materials. Establishes graduation requirements.
STATE SENATOR: The Texas Senate is one of two parts, or chambers, of the Texas State Legislature. Together with the Texas House of Representatives, it makes laws and approves the state budget.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE: The Texas House of Representatives is the other chamber of the Texas State Legislature. Together with the Texas Senate, it makes laws and approves the state budget.
COUNTY JUDGE: Serves as chief executive officer of the county and is involved in almost all aspects of county government, including preparing the County budget and presiding over Commissioners Court. Head of emergency management.