Dallas, Texas, December 2, 2025
Dallas County Judge Clay Lewis Jenkins has announced his candidacy for re-election, aiming for a fifth term. His administration focuses on supporting small businesses and families through initiatives like a $1 million childcare subsidy and mental health diversion programs. With no current Democratic challengers, Jenkins prepares for the March primary against Republican candidate Mike Immler, who raises concerns about county financial management. The upcoming elections are pivotal for Dallas County’s leadership and policy direction.
Dallas, Texas – Dallas County Judge Clay Lewis Jenkins has officially filed for re-election to a fifth term, emphasizing his administration’s ongoing efforts to foster small business growth and enhance family support systems. Among these initiatives, a significant allocation of $1 million is being directed towards subsidizing childcare costs for employees of qualified businesses, a move designed to bolster workforce participation while promoting better developmental outcomes for children in the community. Furthermore, the county is actively developing arrest diversion programs focused on providing critical stabilization services for individuals facing mental health crises and substance abuse issues, rather than resorting to incarceration.
Currently, Jenkins faces no Democratic challengers in the upcoming March 3 primary. However, retired Air Force Colonel Mike Immler has declared his candidacy as a Republican for the November 3 general election. Immler’s extensive military background and experience in leadership roles within the business sector position him as a noteworthy candidate. He has raised concerns regarding the financial management of the county and is advocating for enhancements in economic growth and social services.
Clay Lewis Jenkins has held the position of Dallas County Judge since 2011, where he oversees the county’s administrative functions and leads the Commissioners Court. His tenure includes critical events such as managing the Ebola outbreak in 2014, which solidified his political standing during a challenging public health crisis. Furthermore, in June 2024, Jenkins was elected chair of the Regional Transportation Council, a pivotal body regulating transportation policy across the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
As he looks toward re-election, Jenkins aims to maintain and expand initiatives like the childcare subsidy and mental health diversion programs. He reinforces the significance of public safety and community well-being, stressing that assisting individuals during their most challenging times remains a primary focus of his administration.
The filing period for the March primary remains open for one more week, and many are anticipating further candidates could enter the race. The forthcoming election holds the potential to significantly shape the leadership dynamics of Dallas County for the next four years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Clay Lewis Jenkins?
Clay Lewis Jenkins is the current Dallas County Judge, serving as the chief elected official responsible for overseeing county government operations and leading the Commissioners Court. He has held this position since 2011.
What initiatives has Jenkins implemented during his tenure?
During his tenure, Jenkins has implemented several initiatives, including a $1 million allocation to subsidize childcare costs for employees at qualified businesses and the development of arrest diversion programs to provide stabilization services for individuals experiencing mental health crises and substance abuse issues.
Who is Mike Immler, and what is his platform?
Mike Immler is a 73-year-old retired Air Force Colonel and former business executive who has announced his intention to run as a Republican candidate for Dallas County Judge in the November 3 general election. He expresses concerns about the county’s financial management and aims to improve economic growth and social services.
What is the Regional Transportation Council, and what role does Jenkins play in it?
The Regional Transportation Council (RTC) is a 45-member body responsible for transportation policy in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. In June 2024, Jenkins was elected chair of the RTC, a position he will hold for the next year.
What are the key dates for the upcoming election?
The filing period for the March primary remains open for one more week. The primary election is scheduled for March 3, with the general election on November 3.
Key Features of the Upcoming Election
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incumbent Candidate | Clay Lewis Jenkins seeking re-election for a fifth term as Dallas County Judge. |
| Challenger | Mike Immler, retired Air Force Colonel and former business executive, announced intention to run as a Republican candidate. |
| Key Initiatives | Childcare subsidy program and mental health diversion programs. |
| Regional Role | Jenkins serves as chair of the Regional Transportation Council for the 2024-2025 term. |
| Election Dates | Primary election on March 3; general election on November 3. |
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