Texas Governor Expected to Tap Election Skeptic as New Secretary of State
A 34-year-old pastor and state lawmaker with no election administration experience is poised to become Texas's top elections official.
"He has never run an election, managed a polling place, or operated a county voter registration database." — Chris McGinn, Texas Association of County Election Officials
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is expected to appoint state Representative Nate Schatzline as Secretary of State, according to local election officials. Schatzline, a Republican state lawmaker and pastor, would replace current Secretary Jane Nelson, who is set to leave office on July 17.
A Controversial Choice
Schatzline has repeatedly echoed unsubstantiated claims of widespread election fraud. He authored or co-authored five election-related bills during the 2025-'26 session of the Texas House of Representatives.
The Texas Association of County Election Officials released an analysis suggesting Schatzline would represent a "disruptor model" of leadership. The analysis described this approach as "highly ideological, responsive to grassroots activist demands, and comfortable using the office as an active enforcement agency."
Unusual Timing Raises Concerns
The appointment is unusual due to its timing, coming close to the 2024 federal midterm elections. Because the Texas legislature is not in session, the appointed secretary can serve in an acting capacity until the legislature convenes in 2026.
Anthony Gutierrez, executive director of Common Cause Texas, said this timing means the appointee can act "with less accountability this election cycle."
"An announcement on an appointment will be made at a later date." — Abbott spokesperson (declining to comment on Schatzline specifically)
Political Alliances
Schatzline has aligned with President Donald Trump's false claims about election fraud. He is also an ally of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate. Notably, Schatzline voted against Paxton's impeachment in 2023.