GOP candidates file for county office
County Court-at-Law Judge Cindy Price signs the paperwork signifying her candidacy for her current position.
Over the weekend, candidates began to file paperwork for a place on the March 3, 2026, Republican Party ballot across Chambers County.
A special in-person event was held, as candidates jumped at the chance to file on the first official day, Saturday, Nov. 8.
Several incumbents put pen to paper as they seek new terms. Among those were County Court-at-Law Judge Cindy Price, County Clerk Heather Hawthorne, County Treasurer Nikki Whittington, District Clerk Patti Henry, Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 Mike Wheat, and County Commissioner Precinct 2 Mark Tice.
Another incumbent, Justice of the Peace Precinct 5 David Hatfield, has filed for another term, and he has already drawn at least one challenger, Cindy Davis.
In the race for Justice of the Peace Precinct 6, Jimmy Smith has filed for a place on the ballot.
One candidate has entered the race for County Commissioner Precinct 4, as Bill Wallace has filed for the seat currently held by Ryan Dagley.
As for County Judge Jimmy Sylvia’s spot, well, no one has officially thrown their name in the hat after Sylvia announced his retirement earlier this year. The longtime judge had served in his role for over three decades.
“Serving this County has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Sylvia said at the time of his retirement announcement. “Second only to being a husband, father, and grandfather.”
There will be two upcoming candidate forums, a perfect opportunity to ask questions and get to know the candidates.
The first is on Monday, Jan. 22, in Mont Belvieu.
The second is on Monday, Jan. 29 at the Winnie Community Building, 1301 Park St., Winnie.
For both forums, doors will open at 6 p.m. for a chance to chat with candidates, and the forums begin at 6:30 p.m.
Filings are open until Monday, Dec 8. There will be another in-person event on that day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 4302 South FM 565, Baytown. Anyone who wishes to file by appointment can contact Party Chairman David Redd at 713-933-4677.
For more information on the Chambers County Republican Party, visit cctxgop.com.