Newton County Primary Election Results Delayed After Counting Machine Freezes

Software glitch leaves residents waiting outside courthouse until after 1:20 a.m. for results

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A software malfunction with a vote-counting machine in Newton County, Texas delayed the release of primary election results, leaving dozens of residents waiting past 1 a.m. Wednesday for the final tallies in the Republican race for Newton County judge between incumbent Ronnie Cochran and challenger Lee Fillyaw.

Why it matters

The delay in reporting results highlights the importance of reliable election technology and the need for contingency plans to ensure timely vote counting, especially in close local races that can have a significant impact on a community's future.

The details

Polls closed at 7 p.m., but within 30 minutes the counting machine's screen had frozen. A technician was called but did not arrive until around 10:15 p.m. Counting of early votes finally began shortly before midnight, with officials not providing an estimate on when final results would be available.

  • Polls closed at 7 p.m.
  • By 8 p.m., officials said a technician was on the way but would take more than two hours to arrive.
  • The technician arrived at approximately 10:15 p.m.
  • Counting of early votes finally began shortly before midnight.
  • By 1:20 a.m. Wednesday, county clerk staff began posting early voting results on dry-erase boards in the courthouse gazebo.

The players

Lee Fillyaw

The challenger in the race for Newton County judge, campaigning on the argument that the county needed new leadership and a stronger tax base.

Ronnie Cochran

The incumbent Newton County judge, seeking a second term and telling voters he had spent his first three years learning the role and was ready to deliver results.

Colton Havard

The Newton County Sheriff, who told 12News that the issue stemmed from a software update.

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What they’re saying

“I just felt like our county needed to grow and prosper and improve.”

— Lee Fillyaw (12newsnow.com)

“I just felt like I still had time to serve and help the people, and there's a few things I'd like to see finished through.”

— Ronnie Cochran (12newsnow.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

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.