ELECTION 2026: WASHINGTON CO. JUDGE CANDIDATE DOUGLAS CONE
Election season is in full swing, and KWHI is visiting with candidates ahead of the March primary in Washington County.
Our election series begins with the race for Washington County Judge. Douglas Cone, Kirk Hanath and Brad Tegeler are vying for the seat held by John Durrenberger, who is not running for another term.
Today’s preview is for Douglas Cone, who served nearly 30 years on the bench as a judge in the office of Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace. He is also a Certified Master Peace Officer and the part-owner of several family businesses, including Chappell Hill Sausage Company, 3CS Investments, CHS Farms and Brenham Repair Center.
Cone says he is running as a pro-business fiscal conservative with an emphasis on family values. His priorities include supporting public safety agencies to ensure the well-being of citizens, attracting businesses that will bring younger individuals and families to Washington County, and making sure residents are involved in major decisions, such as the possibility of creating or entering a groundwater conservation district.
Cone also seeks to improve communication with county offices and departments and provide proper resources for them to perform effectively and efficiently.
Cone says his policy is to treat people fairly, be honest, and maintain flexibility.
KWHI is asking each candidate questions about what they believe to be the primary responsibilities of the office they are seeking, some important issues facing the county, their plan to communicate with the public, and how they intend to work with other offices and county departments.
Early voting begins on Tuesday, February 17th. Election Day is Tuesday, March 3rd.
Click below to listen to the full interview with Douglas Cone.

