Wichita County GOP Primary Runoff: County Judge Race Heads to May 26 Vote

Wichita County voters will head to the polls later this month to decide the Republican nominee for county judge, a race that will effectively determine the next leader of the North Texas county. With no Democratic candidate in the race, the winner of the May 26 primary runoff will take office in January 2027, succeeding Jim Johnson, who opted not to seek a second term.

The Candidates: Rick Hatcher vs. Mark Dora

The runoff pits two candidates with distinct backgrounds against each other. Rick Hatcher, a former Wichita Falls city councilor, brings years of local government experience to the race. His opponent, Mark Dora, is a political newcomer who has quickly gained traction with key endorsements in the weeks leading up to the runoff.

Dora’s campaign has secured the backing of Dawn Ferrel, a candidate who was defeated in the March 3 primary election. Ferrel announced her endorsement of Dora on his campaign’s Facebook page earlier this week. The Wichita Falls firefighters union publicly threw its support behind Dora, posting its endorsement on Facebook.

Why This Race Matters

The county judge serves as the chief executive of Wichita County, overseeing a wide range of responsibilities, including budget management, emergency response coordination, and administration of county services. The position also plays a key role in representing the county in legal matters and working with state and federal agencies.

With no Democratic candidate in the race, the Republican primary runoff is effectively the final step in selecting the next county judge. This dynamic is not uncommon in Texas, where many local races are decided in primary elections due to the state’s political landscape.

Key Dates and Voting Information

Early voting for the May 26 runoff begins on May 18 and runs through May 22. Election Day is Tuesday, May 26. Voters can find their polling locations and sample ballots on the Wichita County Elections Office website.

This runoff is one of several local elections taking place in the region. On May 2, voters in nearby communities will weigh in on school bonds and city council races:

• Burkburnett ISD: Residents will vote on a $28.8 million bond for campus construction, as well as two City Council seats.
• City View ISD: Voters will consider a $19.8 million bond for campus facility improvements.
• Iowa Park Consolidated ISD: Two trustee seats are up for election.
• Electra: Residents will choose a mayor, a city commissioner, and one seat on the Electra ISD Board of Trustees.

Statewide Races Also on the Ballot

While the county judge race is the only local runoff in Wichita County, voters will also have the opportunity to weigh in on several high-profile statewide races. The most closely watched contest pits incumbent U.S. Senator John Cornyn against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the Republican nomination. Other statewide races include the Republican primaries for lieutenant governor and attorney general, as well as several congressional seats across Texas.

What’s Next for Wichita County?

The winner of the county judge runoff will take office on January 1, 2027, replacing Jim Johnson, who has served in the role since 2023. The modern judge will inherit a county facing challenges such as economic development, infrastructure needs, and coordination with local school districts on shared priorities.

For voters, the runoff presents a clear choice between two candidates with different backgrounds and visions for the county’s future. With endorsements playing a significant role in the race, turnout could be a deciding factor in who ultimately secures the nomination.

Key Takeaways

• The May 26 Republican primary runoff will decide the next Wichita County judge, as no Democratic candidate filed for the race.
• Candidates Rick Hatcher (former Wichita Falls city councilor) and Mark Dora (political newcomer) are vying for the nomination.
• Dora has secured endorsements from Dawn Ferrel (a March 3 primary candidate) and the Wichita Falls firefighters union.
• Early voting runs from May 18 to May 22; Election Day is May 26.
• The winner will take office on January 1, 2027, succeeding Jim Johnson.

FAQ

What does the Wichita County judge do?

The county judge serves as the chief executive of Wichita County, overseeing budget management, emergency response, county services, and legal representation. The role also involves coordination with state and federal agencies on issues affecting the county.

Why is the Republican primary runoff so important?

With no Democratic candidate in the race, the winner of the Republican primary runoff will effectively become the next county judge. This is a common scenario in Texas, where many local races are decided in primary elections.

When is early voting, and where can I vote?

Early voting runs from May 18 to May 22. Voters can find their polling locations and sample ballots on the Wichita County Elections Office website.

What other elections are happening in the area?

On May 2, voters in Burkburnett, City View, Iowa Park, and Electra will weigh in on school bonds, city council races, and other local contests. Details on these elections are available through their respective city and school district websites.