Harris County District Clerk Marilyn Burgess announced she will not seek reelection in 2026. Her decision follows a dispute over a request for a salary increase. Burgess expressed her concerns about salary disparities among Harris County elected officials, appointed officials, and high-level employees.
Burgess played a role in the Salary Grievance Committee, which evaluates salary grievances. During a commissioners’ court meeting, Harris County Pct. 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia questioned the legality of her involvement in the committee while advocating for her own salary increase.
Burgess released a statement explaining the process she followed. The Texas Local Government Code permits two methods of forming a Salary Grievance Committee. Harris County used the option involving countywide elected officials and former grand jurors. The County Attorney’s Office confirmed that her participation was legal under Texas law.
On September 16, the committee recommended raising the district clerk’s salary to $260,000 annually, an $81,000 increase from the 2025 salary of $179,420. Burgess justified her request by comparing her responsibilities to those of the constables, who received significant raises.
The Harris County Commissioners Court approved a 23% raise for the eight constables in 2024, increasing their salaries to $178,000. Further increases will bring their salaries to $260,000 in Fiscal Year 2026. Burgess argued that her role as District Clerk involves managing over 600 employees and a budget exceeding $60 million, surpassing the responsibilities of some constables.
Burgess provided a spreadsheet detailing the salary increases since 2019. Some county officials earn over $400,000 annually, surpassing the U.S. President’s salary.
In her statement, Burgess announced she would not pursue reelection or any other political office. She pledged to continue her efforts for the office throughout her term. Burgess’ term as District Clerk concludes on December 31, 2026.
