The race for Texas Senate District 9 is headed to a runoff after no candidate secured a majority in this week’s special election to fill the seat vacated by Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock.
Democrat Taylor Rehmet and Republican Leigh Wambsganss will face off in January to determine who will serve the remainder of Hancock’s term through 2026.
District 9 stretches across northern Tarrant County, including parts of Fort Worth and Southlake. Rehmet, a machinist, union leader, and Air Force veteran, centered his campaign on working-class priorities and everyday economic issues. Wambsganss, a conservative activist and communications officer for Patriot Mobile, ran on cutting taxes, reducing government spending, and upholding traditional values.
Former Southlake Mayor John Huffman also competed in the race but fell short of the votes needed to advance.
Election officials will announce the official runoff date soon. For updates and voting details, visit the Tarrant County Elections Office at www.tarrantcounty.com/elections.
