Middleton seeks Texas attorney general seat in 2026

State Sen. Mayes Middleton, a District 11 Republican, is running for Texas attorney general in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election.

He faces two opponents. Nathan Johnson is running as a Democrat, and Tom Oxford as a Libertarian, according to BallotReady election data.

Middleton, who said he has been licensed to practice law since 2008, has centered his campaign on property tax relief, border security and holding public officials accountable. He is certified for the ballot, according to BallotReady.

Candidate information

Party: Republican
Office sought: Texas Attorney General
Election date: Nov. 3, 2026
Education: Juris doctor, University of Texas; bachelor's degree in Plan II Honors, University of Texas
Background: Middleton said he is a seventh-generation Texan. He has also worked as president of Middleton Oil Company and in ranching and farming operations, according to BallotReady profile data. Middleton said he has rejected the state pension and healthcare and donates his entire state salary to local charities.

Experience and public service

Middleton serves as a state senator representing District 11, according to the Texas Senate website. He also served as chairman of the Texas House Freedom Caucus beginning in 2023, according to his campaign.

As a legislator, Middleton said he co-authored the Constitutional Carry bill and authored what he called the strongest ban on COVID vaccine mandates in the country. He also said he authored and passed the Save Women's Sports Act, which he said prohibits men from unfairly competing in women's collegiate sports.

On the issues

The following positions are drawn from Middleton's campaign website and BallotReady candidate responses.

Property taxes and spending: Middleton said property taxes threaten family homes and businesses. He called for limits on property tax growth and "meaningful relief, while simultaneously working towards eventual abolition." He also said he supports a constitutional spending cap, zero-based budgeting and a ban on taxpayer-funded lobbying.

Border security and immigration: Middleton said he would enforce immigration laws and secure the border. He said he would sue to stop sanctuary cities and support the arrest and deportation of dangerous, violent criminals who entered the country illegally.

Public safety: Middleton said he would lead efforts against district attorneys who refuse to enforce the law. He said he supports zero-tolerance policies for violent crime, stronger bonds for dangerous offenders and efforts to combat human trafficking.

Election integrity: Middleton said he would enforce voter ID laws and fight for the ability to prosecute violations of state law, including election-related offenses.

Energy: Middleton said he would protect oil and gas jobs and Texas' energy independence.