Story perspectives

Greg Abbott Appoints Robert Howden Secretary of State, Election Overseer

7/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor Greg Abbott appointed Robert S. Howden as Texas secretary of state, effective July 18, succeeding Jane Nelson.
Howden will oversee the 2026 Texas midterm elections as Abbott’s senior adviser.
He previously served as the governor’s director of legislative affairs and as communications director for former Governor Rick Perry.
The secretary of state supervises county election officials, maintains business filings, and serves as the governor’s liaison on border and Mexican affairs.

History

Historical Context

Secretary of State Katherine Harris’s 2000 certification of George W. Bush’s 537-vote Florida win sparked nationwide debate over the power of election officials. That controversy set a precedent for later concerns about partisan appointments, prompting legislators and watchdogs to scrutinize similar moves in other states, where secretaries of state now shape ballot administration and future contests.

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Story summary

Governor Greg Abbott appointed Robert S. Howden as Texas secretary of state, effective July 18, succeeding Jane Nelson.
Howden will oversee the 2026 Texas midterm elections as Abbott’s senior adviser.
He previously served as the governor’s director of legislative affairs and as communications director for former Governor Rick Perry.
The secretary of state supervises county election officials, maintains business filings, and serves as the governor’s liaison on border and Mexican affairs.

1 / 2