The overview
Mark Henry and Chris Kinard are both seeking the Republican nomination for Galveston County judge, and the winning candidate will appear on the midterm election ballot in November.
County judges serve four-year terms with no term limits.
Key dates to remember:
- Feb. 2: Last day to register to vote in the March primaries
- Feb. 17: Early voting begins
- Feb. 20: Deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot
- Feb. 27: Early voting ends
- March 3: Primary election day
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
*Indicates incumbent
Mark Henry*
Occupation & Experience:
County Judge (15 years serving), Retired Air Force Officer, and Small Business Owner
Candidate Website:
www.judgehenry.com
Contact Information:
409-766-2244
Why are you running for office?
Galveston County needs to keep lowering the tax rate, fighting for meaningful appraisal reform, reducing the size of government, and bolstering our law enforcement. That is why I am running.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
My top priority is to put the taxpayers of Galveston County first. This means continuing to cut taxes, shrink the size of government, invest in law enforcement, and protect the rights of Galveston County residents.
What are the biggest challenges facing Galveston County?
The biggest challenge for residents is skyrocketing property appraisals. I have been fighting for reform at the State Legislature while Galveston County has cut below the no-new-revenue rate for 15 straight years, unlike other entities. The system is broken and needs to be fixed.
What should the county's budgeting priorities be?
Our #1 priority must be and under my leadership has been reducing the tax burden on residents. We can do this while also addressing important issues like investing in law enforcement and streamlining county services.
What is the county's biggest challenge to public safety, and how would you solve it?
We have addressed the biggest challenge of staying competitive on salary while making the County the most desirable place for law enforcement. In December 2025, we increased pay across the board and continued investing in public safety through every annual budget.
Chris Kinard
Occupation & Experience:
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.
Why are you running for office?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.
What are the biggest challenges facing Galveston County?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.
What should the county's budgeting priorities be?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.
What is the county's biggest challenge to public safety, and how would you solve it?
Candidate did not respond to questionnaire by press time.
