Galveston County Judge Race Narrows to Henry vs. Smith for November 2026
Galveston County residents have chosen their candidates for the county judge election. On Tuesday, voters selected Mark Henry as the Republican nominee, while Albert 'Al' Smith ran unopposed in the Democratic primary. The final decision will take place in November 2026.
Mark Henry is seeking his fifth term as Galveston County judge. He has held the position since 2017, serving eight years—longer than many predecessors but shorter than L.E. 'Buster' Broussard's 20-year tenure. Before politics, Henry worked in the US Air Force and now owns an aircraft parts business and a FAA repair station in the county.
The county judge role in Texas carries broad responsibilities. It includes acting as the county's CEO, leading emergency management, overseeing the budget, and presiding over the Commissioners Court.
Albert 'Al' Smith, the Democratic candidate, faced no opposition in his primary. In 2024, he was also inducted as a fellow of the Texas City Rotary Club.
The general election for Galveston County judge is set for November 3, 2026. Voters will decide between Henry, a long-serving incumbent, and Smith, the sole Democratic contender. The winner will take office on January 1, 2025.
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