Three vie for Bastrop County judge

Incumbent Gregory Klaus and Donald Loucks face off in Republican primary, while Democrat Dock Jackson runs unopposed

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Three candidates have turned in their bids to run for Bastrop County judge in the upcoming March primary election. Incumbent Gregory Klaus and Donald Loucks will face off for the Republican nomination, while Democrat Dock Jackson is unopposed in his party's primary. The Republican nominee will be matched by Jackson in the November general election, with the winner set to start serving January 2027.

Why it matters

The Bastrop County judge is a powerful position that oversees county government operations, manages the county budget, and serves as the county's emergency management coordinator. With Bastrop County experiencing rapid population growth, the next county judge will play a critical role in addressing challenges related to public safety, infrastructure, and responsible development.

The details

The three candidates have outlined their priorities and qualifications. Incumbent Gregory Klaus is running on his experience and a focus on responsible growth and planning. Donald Loucks, a former elected official and certified emergency manager, is emphasizing public safety as his top priority. Dock Jackson, who has extensive experience in county and municipal government, is positioning himself as the most qualified candidate.

  • Early voting for the March 3 primary election runs from February 18 to February 27.
  • Election day voting will be held on March 3 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The players

Gregory Klaus

The incumbent Bastrop County judge who is running for re-election on the Republican ticket.

Donald Loucks

A former elected official and certified emergency manager who is challenging Klaus for the Republican nomination for Bastrop County judge.

Dock Jackson

A Democrat who is running unopposed in his party's primary for Bastrop County judge.

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What they’re saying

“I'm running again because I care deeply about Bastrop County and the people who live here. As a lifelong resident, I believe there is still important work to do, and I want to continue building on the progress we've made.”

— Gregory Klaus, Incumbent Bastrop County Judge (elgincourier.com)

“As a fifth-generation Bastrop County resident, I have spent almost a decade working in county government in the county judge's office, county clerk's office and justice of the peace offices. I have served for three decades in municipal government as a Bastrop City Council member, Elgin Parks and Recreation director and city of Austin Parks and Recreation special events manager. My passion is to continue to provide qualified leadership for Bastrop County.”

— Dock Jackson, Democratic Candidate for Bastrop County Judge (elgincourier.com)

“The citizens of Bastrop County are facing serious issues: public safety, uncontrolled growth and ever-escalating property taxes. My campaign is about bringing strong, proactive leadership to county government to tackle these issues.”

— Donald Loucks, Republican Candidate for Bastrop County Judge (elgincourier.com)

What’s next

The Republican primary election on March 3 will determine which candidate will face Dock Jackson in the November general election. The winner of the general election will take office as Bastrop County judge in January 2027.

The takeaway

The race for Bastrop County judge features a mix of experience and new perspectives, with the candidates highlighting different priorities such as responsible growth, public safety, and qualified leadership. Voters will have the opportunity to choose the candidate they believe is best equipped to guide the county through its ongoing challenges and rapid development.