Seats on three of Texas's highest courts are up for election in the 2026 midterm. The courts are the state Supreme Court, the Court of Criminal Appeals and the 15th Court of Appeals. All members are elected statewide in partisan races. Judges appointed by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott hold seven of the 10 seats up for election across the three courts. Democrats are looking to gain ground on courts that have been held by Republicans for decades.
The Texas Supreme Court is the state's highest civil court. It has nine justices who serve staggered six-year terms, with no term limit. Justices appointed by the governor must run for election in the next election cycle. This year, incumbents James "Jimmy" Blacklock, James Sullivan and Kyle Hawkins are running.
Blacklock was appointed to the court in 2018 and named chief justice in 2025. He previously served as Abbott's general counsel. He said he interprets statutes and the state constitution according to their text and original meaning. Sullivan was appointed in 2025 and also previously served as Abbott's general counsel.