Dallas County 2026 Elections: Key Races and Ballot Measures

DALLAS — With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, Dallas County voters will face several high-stakes races and ballot measures that could reshape local governance and infrastructure for years to come. Early voting begins October 19, with Election Day set for November 3.

County Judge Race Takes Center Stage

The most closely watched contest is the Dallas County Judge race, where incumbent Judge Clay Jenkins faces a strong challenge from former Richardson City Council member Maria Santos. The race has centered on issues of public safety, economic development, and infrastructure improvements across the county's diverse communities from Highland Park to Oak Cliff.

"This election is really about the future direction of Dallas County," said political analyst Dr. Robert Martinez from Southern Methodist University. "We're seeing unprecedented engagement from voters in neighborhoods like Deep Ellum, Bishop Arts District, and even traditionally low-turnout areas along Harry Hines Boulevard."

Santos has focused her campaign on improving public transportation and supporting small businesses, particularly those affected by recent severe weather events. Her platform includes expanded support for local entrepreneurs, including auto repair shops and service businesses that have struggled with supply chain disruptions.

Infrastructure Bond Propositions

Voters will also decide on three major bond propositions totaling $2.8 billion. Proposition A would fund road improvements and bridge repairs throughout the county, including critical updates to aging overpasses near Love Field and infrastructure along Interstate 35E.

Proposition B addresses public safety facility upgrades, while Proposition C focuses on parks and recreation improvements, with planned enhancements to White Rock Lake trails and expanded green spaces in underserved areas like Pleasant Grove and West Dallas.

"These bond measures represent the largest infrastructure investment in Dallas County history," explained longtime resident and community advocate Jennifer Thompson, who has organized voter education drives in the Lakewood and M Streets areas. "Whether you're commuting from Garland to downtown or running a business along Commerce Street, these improvements will impact everyone."

School Board and Municipal Races

Several Dallas ISD board positions are also on the ballot, with education funding and campus security emerging as primary concerns for parents across districts from North Dallas to Lancaster Road.

The city council races in Garland, Richardson, and Mesquite have drawn significant attention, particularly regarding zoning issues and small business support. Local business owners, including service providers like Faith Auto Glass Dallas, have been actively engaged in discussions about commercial district revitalization and parking availability near busy corridors like Greenville Avenue and Forest Lane.

Voter Information

Dallas County has established 45 early voting locations, including sites at NorthPark Center, Fair Park, and the George Allen Courts Building downtown. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during early voting and on Election Day.

County election officials expect turnout to exceed 65%, potentially the highest for a midterm election in county history. Voters can find their polling locations and sample ballots at DallasCountyVotes.org.