Governor Abbott Sets Special Election for Texas Senate District 22 for November 3

AUSTIN, TX — Governor Greg Abbott issued a formal election proclamation Thursday afternoon setting Tuesday, November 3, 2026, as the date for a special election to fill the vacant seat in Texas Senate District 22, representing ten Central Texas counties.

Senate Vacancy and Candidate Filing Deadline

The vacancy in District 22 occurred following the resignation of long-serving Republican Senator Brian Birdwell of Granbury, who stepped down to accept a state appointment. Under the Texas Election Code, candidates seeking to appear on the special election ballot had until 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, to submit certified nomination petitions to the Texas Secretary of State’s Elections Division.

Early voting for the special election will begin on Monday, October 19, 2026, and run through Friday, October 30.

District Demographics and Political Stakes

Senate District 22 encompasses Hood, Johnson, McLennan, Navarro, Ellis, Bosque, Falls, Hill, Somervell, and rural portions of Tarrant counties, forming a conservative stronghold in Central Texas. Several state representatives, municipal mayors, and prominent business leaders have filed paperwork to contest the nonpartisan blanket primary.

If no single candidate secures a majority of the vote on November 3, the Governor will order a subsequent runoff election between the top two finishers.

Legislative Seating Timeline

The newly elected senator will be sworn into office prior to the convening of the 89th Texas Legislature in January 2027.