Texas election officials and voting rights advocates are expressing concern about the upcoming departure of Jane Nelson, who announced she will step down as Texas secretary of state effective July 17, just months before the November midterm elections.
Because the secretary of state serves as Texas’ chief election official, some local administrators worry the leadership transition could create uncertainty during a critical period when counties are recruiting poll workers, securing polling places, and processing voter registrations.
Greg Abbott is required to appoint a replacement, but his office has not yet announced who will fill the position.
Some voting rights advocates fear a new secretary of state could issue different guidance on election administration, potentially creating confusion for county officials and voters. While the office cannot change election laws, it can issue legal interpretations and guidance on how election rules should be implemented.
Emily Eby French of Common Cause Texas said she worries the state could return to a period of instability similar to the years before Nelson’s appointment, when Texas had multiple secretaries of state in quick succession.
The transition comes after county election officials spent months dealing with challenges involving redistricting and issues with the state’s election management and voter registration system, known as TEAM. The system, used by most Texas counties, underwent a major overhaul last year and has experienced operational problems that prompted concerns from the Texas Association of County Election Officials.
Despite those concerns, some election experts believe the transition is unlikely to disrupt the November election. Joshua Ferrer noted that elections are ultimately administered at the county level and that experienced staff typically maintain continuity even when leadership changes occur.
Chris McGinn of the Texas Association of County Election Officials said local officials value the secretary of state’s traditional role as a partner and source of guidance rather than a top-down authority. He said some administrators are concerned that future leadership could take a more political approach to directing county operations.
Meanwhile, local officials continue to emphasize practical concerns such as funding and resources. Kaufman County Elections Administrator Tandi Smith said she hopes the next secretary of state will advocate for additional support for county election departments, which are responsible for ensuring elections run smoothly even during emergencies such as severe weather.
For now, county election offices across Texas are continuing preparations for November while awaiting Abbott’s choice for the state’s next chief election official.
