Former Wichita Falls Councilor Runs for County Judge

Rick Hatcher cites business background as key qualification for Wichita County Judge role

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Rick Hatcher, a former Wichita Falls city councilor, is running for Wichita County Judge in the upcoming Republican primary. Hatcher is competing against Mark Dora and Dawn Ferrell for the seat. Hatcher cited his professional business background as a key reason for his candidacy, noting his experience on the Wichita Falls Sales Tax Corporation.

Why it matters

The Wichita County Judge is responsible for managing the county's $85 million budget, with law enforcement being the largest expense. Hatcher's business experience could bring a new perspective to county finances and operations.

The details

Hatcher previously ran for the position in 2022, receiving over 4,000 votes but falling short of the current judge, Jim Johnson. If elected, Hatcher would be tasked with overseeing the county budget, including revenue generated from housing out-of-county inmates. Beyond his government service, Hatcher highlighted his involvement with local organizations like the Hotter'n Hell Spaghetti Dinner and the Race for the Cure.

  • Hatcher is running in the upcoming 2026 Republican primary for Wichita County Judge.
  • Hatcher previously ran for the position in 2022.

The players

Rick Hatcher

A former Wichita Falls city councilor who is running for Wichita County Judge in the 2026 Republican primary.

Mark Dora

One of Hatcher's opponents in the Wichita County Judge Republican primary race.

Dawn Ferrell

One of Hatcher's opponents in the Wichita County Judge Republican primary race.

Jim Johnson

The current Wichita County Judge, who defeated Hatcher in the 2022 election.

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What they’re saying

“I come from a business background, so I think that's what the county needs as a county judge.”

— Rick Hatcher, Candidate for Wichita County Judge (texomashomepage.com)

“The largest consumer of the county's budget, of course, is the sheriff's [office] and the Law Enforcement Center.”

— Rick Hatcher, Candidate for Wichita County Judge (texomashomepage.com)

“I'm built to serve people. I'm made to serve people. I've been preparing for this my whole life.”

— Rick Hatcher, Candidate for Wichita County Judge (texomashomepage.com)

What’s next

The Wichita County Republican primary election will be held on March 5, 2026, where voters will choose between Hatcher, Dora, and Ferrell for the county judge position.

The takeaway

Hatcher's business background and experience in local government could bring a new perspective to managing Wichita County's finances and operations if he is elected as the next county judge. However, he will need to convince Republican primary voters that his qualifications make him the best choice for the role.