Top Republicans Turn on Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller

Incumbent faces tough primary challenge amid allegations of corruption and ineffectiveness

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, once a rising Republican star and ally of former President Donald Trump, is now facing a tough primary challenge as top GOP officials, including Governor Greg Abbott, have turned against him over allegations of corruption and ineffectiveness. Miller's Republican opponent, Nate Sheets, has outraised the incumbent and has the backing of major agricultural groups like the Texas Farm Bureau and Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association. The three-term commissioner has a history of scandals, including investigations into his use of public funds for personal travel and his close ties to a political consultant who was indicted. With the loss of support from fellow Republicans, Miller is seen as the underdog in his bid for a fourth term.

Why it matters

The race for Texas Agriculture Commissioner is important because the position oversees the state's second largest industry. Miller's struggles highlight the growing rift within the Republican party in Texas, as more traditional conservatives distance themselves from those seen as too closely aligned with Trump and embroiled in scandal. The outcome could have significant implications for the future direction of the state GOP and its relationship with the agricultural community.

The details

Miller, a three-term incumbent, is facing a primary challenge from Nate Sheets, a former Miller donor who has since turned critic. Sheets has outraised Miller by a 3-to-1 margin since the start of 2025. Miller has a history of scandals, including investigations into his use of public funds for personal travel and his close ties to a political consultant who was indicted. Top Republicans, including Governor Greg Abbott, have publicly attacked Miller, accusing him of being corrupt and ineffective. Abbott has endorsed Sheets, calling Miller an "utter failure" who lacks the character to serve. Miller has defended his record, touting initiatives like the AgriStress Hotline and the Farm Fresh Initiative, but has lost the support of many farmers and ranchers who say he hasn't done enough to support them.

  • In 2016, then-presidential candidate Donald Trump praised Miller as a "great guy" and one of his most vocal allies in Texas.
  • In 2018 and 2022, Trump endorsed Miller for reelection, and there were reports he was being considered for Agriculture Secretary.
  • In 2021, a former friend told law enforcement that Miller asked him to dispose of marijuana cigarettes and gummies after hearing federal agents were investigating him.
  • Last year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture criticized Miller's handling of the New World Screwworm threat, saying he was "blatantly disregarding tried and true [New World Screwworm] offensive strategies in favor of clickbait publicity stunts."

The players

Sid Miller

The three-term incumbent Texas Agriculture Commissioner who is facing a tough primary challenge amid allegations of corruption and ineffectiveness.

Nate Sheets

A former Miller donor who is now challenging the incumbent for the Republican nomination for Texas Agriculture Commissioner. Sheets has outraised Miller and has the backing of major agricultural groups.

Greg Abbott

The Republican Governor of Texas who has publicly attacked Miller, calling him an "utter failure" and endorsing Sheets as the better candidate.

Donald Trump

The former president who previously praised and endorsed Miller, but has been noticeably silent in the current primary race.

Todd Smith

Miller's longtime political consultant who was indicted for commercial bribery and theft, and later hired by Miller as the second-highest paid employee in the Department of Agriculture.

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What they’re saying

“Texans deserve an Agriculture Commissioner who is focused on promoting Texas Agriculture, with zero tolerance for criminality.”

— Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas (Conservative radio show)

“We don't necessarily need a guy who's really good on a horse, who is really good at doctoring cows. We need more of a CEO than a cowboy.”

— Lee Wells, Rancher and small business owner (The Texas Tribune)

“The entire Agency and its critical mission to support Texas farmers and ranchers was in jeopardy due to the misconduct and misbehavior of Miller.”

— Dawn Buckingham, Texas Land Commissioner (Statement)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.