Who Have Local Lawmakers Endorsed in 2026?

U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson has issued at least two major endorsements in the upcoming primary election cycle/Photo by Campaign

Endorsements are a common thing at election time, and some of the most important ones come from our local legislators. Here’s a look at who our local legislators have thrown their weight behind as the March primary election rapidly approaches.

U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-Amarillo, Congressional District 13)

Jackson has endorsed in a handful of contests this year, including some major statewide races. Jackson endorsed former State Sen. Don Huffines in the Republican primary for Texas Comptroller. Jackson also endorsed fellow congressman Chip Roy in the primary for Texas Attorney General, according to Roy’s campaign website.

State Sen. Kevin Sparks (R-Midland, Senate District 31)

Sparks, who is up for re-election this cycle, has made one major endorsement this primary cycle. The Midland Republican threw his weight behind Nate Sheets, a commercial honey manufacturer, to be the next Texas Agriculture Commissioner over the incumbent, Sid Miller. Sparks was one of Sheets’ earliest primary endorsers in his battle against Miller.

State Rep. John Smithee (R-Amarillo, House District 86)

Smithee, who is leaving office after having first been elected in 1984, has only made one major endorsement of note this cycle — in the race for his own seat. Smithee endorsed Holly Jeffreys, a local medical professional and educator, as his preferred successor in the House District 86 primary. Jeffreys is facing Jamie Haynes in that primary race.

State Rep. Caroline Fairly (R-Amarillo, House District 87)

Fairly, who is up for re-election for the first time in 2026, appears to have not announced any major endorsements as of this writing.