Mack Name Confusion in Montgomery Judge Primary

**Headline: “Mack” Misdirection? Name Controversy Stirs Montgomery County Judge Race**

**MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX** – A unique and potentially confusing situation is unfolding in the lead-up to the March 5th Republican primary for Montgomery County Judge, centered on a familiar name and a spirited debate over its use. The race, which sees an open seat with incumbent Judge Mark Keough not seeking re-election, has primarily focused on two contenders: current Montgomery County Commissioner Billy Graff and attorney Mackenzie Keough.

The source of the pre-election stir lies in Mackenzie Keough’s long-held nickname, “Mack.” While innocuous on its own, the “Mack” name carries significant political weight and recognition in Montgomery County, largely due to former State Representative and County Judge Mark Mack, and his brother, former County Commissioner Mike Mack. Neither Mark nor Mike Mack are involved in the current County Judge primary, yet their established presence in local politics for decades has created an unusual dynamic.

Billy Graff’s campaign has directly addressed the issue, launching signs featuring “Mack” with a prominent strikethrough, accompanied by the clear declaration: “Billy Graff is NOT Mack.” This strategy is an explicit attempt to differentiate Graff from Mackenzie Keough and, by extension, from any perceived association with the broader “Mack” political legacy.

Alan Sadler, Graff’s campaign manager, has not held back in his assessment of the situation. “This is purposeful misdirection,” Sadler stated, contending that the use of “Mack” is a calculated effort to capitalize on voter familiarity with the prominent political family. “It’s designed to create confusion and draw votes based on a name that voters recognize, even if it’s not the candidate they think they’re voting for.”

Mackenzie Keough, on the other hand, dismisses the controversy as unfounded. He maintains that “Mack” has been his nickname since childhood, a common practice for those named Mackenzie. “It’s simply my nickname,” Keough stated, suggesting no ulterior motive behind its use in his campaign.

The Montgomery County Judge position is a crucial one, serving as the chief executive of the county government, presiding over the Commissioners Court, and holding significant administrative responsibilities, rather than primarily judicial duties as the title might suggest elsewhere. With an open seat and a crowded field, the stakes are high.

A third candidate, Flavio Gomez, is also on the ballot, but much of the pre-primary discussion has been overshadowed by this “Mack” versus “not Mack” dynamic. Early voting is underway, and the primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, March 5th. Should no candidate secure more than 50% of the vote, a runoff election will be held on May 28th.

Local election officials are urging voters to pay close attention to the full names listed on their ballots and to research each candidate carefully. With the potential for voter confusion, knowing precisely who you’re supporting for Montgomery County Judge is more critical than ever.