Q&A: Sonya Jones and Maria T. Jackson to face off in May Democratic runoff for Fort Bend County clerk

Why are you running for Fort Bend County clerk?

I am running for Fort Bend County Clerk to modernize services and better serve both the public and legal community with efficiency and transparency. I will ensure county records follow best practices and state law while delivering culturally responsive service that reflects Fort Bend County’s diverse, global community.

What are your qualifications for why you’d be a strong candidate in this role?

I bring executive-level leadership, proven budget and records management experience, and a track record of modernizing large public institutions. I have overseen complex budgets, ensured legal compliance, led diverse teams and delivered transparent, efficient services—skills directly aligned with the responsibilities of Fort Bend County clerk.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

If elected, my top priorities are strengthening organizational culture, improving employee morale and conducting a thorough budget analysis to ensure resources are allocated efficiently. I will focus investments on staff support and service delivery so the county clerk’s office operates effectively and responsibly in serving the public.

What should the county's budgeting priorities be?

The county’s budgeting priorities must address long-overdue technology upgrades in the county clerk’s office while ensuring funding to meet unfunded and new legislative mandates. I will advocate for responsible investments that modernize operations, improve public access and ensure full compliance with state law.

How do you plan to continue preparing for population growth as the county nears one million residents?

As Fort Bend County approaches one million residents, I will raise the standard of excellence by expanding technology, improving language accessibility and strengthening community outreach. These efforts will ensure residents receive efficient, inclusive and responsive services that keep pace with growth and reflect our county’s diverse population.

Why are you running for Fort Bend County clerk?

I am running to continue my lifelong public service by leading an office that demands integrity, accuracy and accessibility. As Fort Bend County grows, residents deserve an experienced leader who values transparency, efficiency and public trust in county records and services.

What are your qualifications for why you’d be a strong candidate in this role?

I bring decades of experience as a judge, prosecutor, compliance director and supervising attorney. My careers required managing staff, safeguarding sensitive records, ensuring legal compliance and serving the public fairly. These are the core responsibilities of the county clerk’s office.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

My priorities include improving customer service, reducing wait times, expanding secure online access, ensuring timely public access to records, strengthening cybersecurity and investing in staff training so the office is professional, efficient and responsive to the public.

What should the county's budgeting priorities be?

The county should prioritize responsible spending focused on technology modernization, cybersecurity, staff training and efficient service delivery. Smart investments reduce long-term costs, protect personal information and ensure taxpayers receive reliable and accessible government services.