Early vote puts Jefts ahead of Snell in county judge contest

Heather Jefts holds a 56.8 percent lead over Steve Snell in the race for Williamson County judge, according to early voting results released this week. The Democratic challenger outpaces the Republican incumbent, who currently holds the seat, by a margin of 13.6 percentage points.

Snell assumed the office in 2025 after being appointed by county commissioners. He stepped into the role following the resignation of Bill Gravell, who left the position to join the Trump administration. Snell is now seeking his first full four-year term in the role.

Jefts, a former Cedar Park City Council member, campaigned on a platform focused on local infrastructure and fiscal policy. She stated that her primary goals include establishing a medical examiner's office, protecting aquifers, addressing traffic congestion, and providing property tax relief to homeowners.

Snell, a former Liberty Hill Independent School District superintendent, outlined a different set of priorities. He said his focus would be on supporting law enforcement with competitive pay, managing rapid growth through mobility solutions, and maintaining conservative budgeting to protect taxpayers.

The county judge serves as the presiding officer of the Williamson County Commissioners Court. Both candidates bring distinct professional backgrounds to the race. Jefts previously owned a swimming and coaching business and worked as a veterinary surgical technician. She served four terms on the Cedar Park City Council.

Snell spent six years leading the Liberty Hill Independent School District. The upcoming election will determine who leads the commissioners court for the next four years. Early voting figures provide the first concrete measure of voter preference in this closely watched local contest.