James Graf concedes Montgomery County judge race to Mark Keough

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James Graf has conceded the race for Montgomery County judge to Mark Keough.

Graf acknowledged the outcome in a statement Tuesday night, saying:

I have enjoyed sharing my vision for the future of Montgomery County and approach to mitigating the risks we face as we race to a million residents in the coming years. I hope my ideas will be useful to Judge Keough and the Commissioners. I appreciate the civility of Judge Keough and his campaign and our frequent good natured interaction, and I wish him well and pray for his success.

James Graf

The contest pitted Republican incumbent Mark Keough, who has served as county judge since 2019, against Democrat James Graf, a business and finance professional.

Keough sought a third term, campaigning on his record of lowering county tax rates, investing in infrastructure and supporting law enforcement. Graf emphasized long-term financial planning, transparency and preparing the county for continued population growth.

The county judge presides over Commissioners Court, which oversees county spending, infrastructure, public safety and emergency management.

“I just called Judge Keough, congratulated him and wished him well,” Graf said.

The winner will serve a four-year term beginning in January 2027.