Montgomery County March 3 Primary Election Info

Conroe, TX – March 3, 2020 – Voters across the Conroe-Montgomery area are heading to the polls today for the crucial March 3rd primary election, with polling locations open across Montgomery County from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This election will determine which candidates will represent their respective parties in the November general election, vying for a wide array of local, state, and federal offices. Early voting for the primaries concluded on February 28th, reporting steady engagement from the electorate.

As a rapidly growing and predominantly conservative region, Montgomery County’s political landscape means that the Republican primary often serves as the most competitive stage for many local offices. This year, the GOP ballot features a significant number of contested races, particularly for county-level positions, reflecting intense internal party competition. In contrast, many Democratic primary races at the local level are uncontested, with candidates automatically advancing to the general election.

**Key Contested Republican Races Highlight Local Governance**

Several high-profile Republican primary contests are drawing considerable attention, as they will directly shape the future administration and services of Montgomery County:

* **Montgomery County Judge:** Incumbent Mark Keough faces challenges from James Noack, a sitting County Commissioner for Precinct 2, and Billy Graff. This race is pivotal, as the County Judge serves as the chief administrative officer, presides over the Commissioners Court, and is instrumental in managing the county’s rapid growth, infrastructure needs, and the significant debate over property tax rates – issues that have been central to candidate platforms.
* **Montgomery County District Attorney:** Incumbent Brett Ligon is challenged by Mike Valdez. The District Attorney’s office is responsible for prosecuting criminal cases, and this race often focuses on candidates’ strategies for maintaining public safety and ensuring justice within a booming population.
* **County Commissioner Precincts:** Two Commissioner races are hotly contested. For **Commissioner Precinct 1**, Robert Walker and Vince Gianfrancisco are vying for the spot. In **Commissioner Precinct 3**, voters will choose between Don Doering, Gregor Binns, and Kevin Ingram. County Commissioners play a vital role in approving the county budget, overseeing roads and bridges, and setting policies that directly impact residents’ daily lives, particularly in areas experiencing rapid development and increased traffic congestion.
* **Justice of the Peace Precinct 1:** Incumbent Wayne Mack is challenged by Mike Aduddell. Justice of the Peace courts handle misdemeanor criminal cases, small claims disputes, truancy cases, and conduct inquests.

**State and Federal Nominations Impacting the County**

Voters are also selecting nominees for state and federal positions that will represent Montgomery County’s interests in Austin and Washington D.C.:

* **State Representative District 3:** Incumbent Cecil Bell Jr. is challenged by Paul Kasmiersky. This district covers portions of Montgomery and Walker counties, and the representative advocates for local concerns in the Texas Legislature, particularly on issues such as property tax reform, public education funding, and state regulations affecting businesses and residents.
* **U.S. Representative District 8:** Incumbent Kevin Brady is facing challengers Kirk Empower and Candice Nagel. Representative Brady has served in Congress since 1997, and District 8 encompasses a significant portion of Montgomery County. The nominee will address national policy on the economy, healthcare, foreign affairs, and other federal matters directly impacting local constituents.

**Voting Information for Election Day**

Registered voters in Montgomery County can cast their ballot at any of the county’s designated polling locations today, a system implemented to provide greater convenience and flexibility. A valid form of photo identification is required to vote, as mandated by Texas law. Acceptable forms include a Texas driver’s license, Texas election identification certificate, Texas personal identification card, Texas handgun license, U.S. military identification card, U.S. passport, or a certificate of naturalization.

To assist voters in preparing, sample ballots detailing specific races and candidates were made available online through the Montgomery County Elections website (e.g., www.mctx.org/elections).

The candidates who emerge victorious from today’s primary elections will advance to the General Election on November 3rd, 2020. While primary election turnout is often lower than in general elections, it is critical in shaping the political landscape for the entire year, particularly in areas with strong party dominance like Montgomery County. Local election officials encourage all eligible citizens to exercise their right to vote and help determine the county’s future.