Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock is seeking election to the position he’s held since July,setting up a competitive GOP primary battle.
The opening occurred after Glenn Hegar transitioned to become Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System. Hancock faces challenges from Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick, endorsed by businessman H. Ross Perot Jr., and former State Senator Don Huffines of Dallas, backed by Senator Ted Cruz. Governor Greg Abbott appointed Hancock and has since publicly campaigned for him last month in Fort Worth.
Hancock described the governor’s endorsement as “wonderful,” adding, “Obviously, we have a very not only loved but extremely successful governor who’s done a phenomenal job in the state of Texas. So, I love to have his backing.Frankly, I love having this friendship.”
Hancock’s Focus: Accomplishment Over Rhetoric
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Hancock’s campaign centers on his record in office.As the state’s Chief Financial Officer, he emphasizes tangible results. “Our message is watch our work,” Hancock stated. “Watch what we do. I’ve always been somebody that’s more about accomplishment than rhetoric. as I’ve been in office, we’ve done a number of things. We have gotten rid of state contracts based on race and based on gender. We’ve created a level playing field.We’ve installed all-new financial systems. We’re running the agency more like a business.”
Building a Landmark Education Savings Account Program
A key initiative for Hancock and his office is the development of a new education savings accounts program, slated to begin for the 2026-27 school year, starting in August. The agency recently finalized and released the program’s rules,positioning it to become the largest of its kind nationwide.
Republican leaders have prioritized support for students from low-income families and those with disabilities. The program, approved by lawmakers earlier this year, will provide most eligible students with up to $10,000 annually, while students with disabilities may receive up to $30,000 per year. Homeschooled students are eligible for up to $2,000 per year.
Hancock expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We’re very excited about it. In fact, we sent out a survey, and the response we are getting already is that 83 percent of those Catholic private schools are interested in the program. From day one, I’ve literally been traveling the state meeting with those schools being in those lower income, urban (areas), wich is our target, low income, special needs. Really focused on that, and we’ve been in those communities. I wanted them to see a face and someone that they knew that they could trust. We just want to be really clear and know that we’re going to be accountable at taxpayer dollars. I think we’re going to have great participation.”
State Senator Sarah Eckhardt of Austin and Michael Lange are competing in the Democratic primary for texas Comptroller.