Candidates Vie for Texas Senate District 4 Seat

Brett Ligon and Charlie Miller weigh in on key issues ahead of voting

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The race for the Texas Senate District 4 seat features two candidates, Brett Ligon and Charlie Miller, who have laid out their plans to represent the diverse region encompassing Jefferson, Chambers, and Montgomery counties. The candidates discussed topics ranging from balancing representation across the district to the state's role in education.

Why it matters

This election will determine who will represent the economically, culturally, and demographically diverse Senate District 4, which includes industrial hubs, suburban areas, and rural communities. The outcome could impact key issues like public safety, infrastructure, education, and support for local industries.

The details

Ligon, a former Montgomery County District Attorney, emphasized the need to maintain regular contact with local officials, business leaders, and community members to ensure decisions in Austin reflect real needs. He supports a measured state role in education, preserving local control while setting standards and accountability. Miller, a business owner, pledged to directly engage with constituents and focus on workforce development programs to prepare high school students for in-demand jobs. Both candidates expressed a willingness to work across the aisle when solutions benefit Texans.

  • Voting is set to begin in the Texas Senate District 4 race.

The players

Brett Ligon

A 57-year-old former elected District Attorney of Montgomery County, Ligon holds a Juris Doctor degree from South Texas College of Law. He has received key endorsements from Governor Greg Abbott, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, and former Senator Brandon Creighton.

Charlie Miller

A business owner and high school graduate, Miller has volunteered extensively through his church for over 20 years and is seeking the people's endorsement, having not held any other elected positions.

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What they’re saying

“Effective representation starts with listening and staying connected. I plan to maintain regular contact with local officials, business leaders, educators and first responders, so decisions in Austin are grounded in real community needs.”

— Brett Ligon, Candidate (beaumontenterprise.com)

“I believe very strongly in the importance of party unity. But I understand that even Texas is made up of people with different beliefs and ideas. I am not of the belief that people are automatically 100% wrong because they have a different letter next to their name. There will be times when we must work together.”

— Charlie Miller, Candidate (beaumontenterprise.com)

What’s next

Voters in Texas Senate District 4 will head to the polls to cast their ballots in the upcoming election.

The takeaway

This race highlights the need for effective representation that can balance the diverse interests and unique needs across the broad expanse of Senate District 4, from industrial hubs to rural communities, while also demonstrating a willingness to work collaboratively for the benefit of all Texans.