San Antonio, Texas, February 2, 2026
Michael Berlanga, a CPA and property tax consultant, has officially entered the race for Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. His candidacy adds excitement to the Republican primary, where he’ll compete against acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock and others. Berlanga promises to empower taxpayers through education and grassroots organizing with his ‘Texans vs Taxes’ initiative, aiming to create taxpayer associations across the state. With a strong background in taxation and community involvement, Berlanga is set to advocate for transparency and accountability in Texas tax policy.
Michael Berlanga Enters Texas Comptroller Race
Tax Consultant Aims to Empower Texans in Republican Primary
San Antonio, Texas – Michael Berlanga, a certified public accountant and property tax consultant, has officially announced his candidacy for the Republican primary for Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, scheduled for March 3, 2026. His entry adds another dynamic layer to a competitive field that includes acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock, Railroad Commissioner Christi Craddick, and former State Senator Don Huffines. With his extensive background in Texas taxation, Berlanga aims to bring a fresh perspective to this critical position.
As a certified public accountant, Berlanga has not only mastered the nuances of Texas taxation, but he has also contributed to taxpayer education by offering free property tax seminars across numerous counties. His involvement on the Board of the Bexar Taxpayers Association further highlights his commitment to advocate for taxpayers throughout the state. This experience positions him well to address the ongoing issues many Texans face regarding tax policy and governmental oversight.
Background and Qualifications
Berlanga’s qualifications encompass a robust mix of technical expertise and grassroots involvement. His work as a real estate broker and property tax consultant complements his CPA credentials, giving him a comprehensive understanding of both personal and commercial taxation. His focus on taxpayer education not only demonstrates his dedication to the community but also his belief in informed citizenry as a cornerstone of democracy.
Campaign Focus
Central to Berlanga’s campaign is the “Texans vs Taxes” movement, a grassroots initiative aimed at empowering taxpayers through education and local organizing. By forming taxpayer associations in each of Texas’s 254 counties, Berlanga seeks to establish a cohesive network that advocates for transparency, accountability, and the protection of taxpayer rights. This initiative underscores his determination to foster a strong, informed community that actively engages in shaping tax policies.
Primary Election Details
Voters in Texas will head to the polls for the Republican primary on March 3, 2026, to select their choice for Comptroller. The candidates include:
- Kelly Hancock – Acting Comptroller and former State Senator from District 9.
- Christi Craddick – Railroad Commissioner.
- Don Huffines – Former State Senator.
- Michael Berlanga – CPA and property tax consultant.
The winner of this primary will then face the Democratic nominee in the general election on November 3, 2026.
Conclusion
Michael Berlanga’s candidacy for Texas Comptroller represents a significant addition to the upcoming Republican primary, offering a candidate with substantial experience in taxation and a passion for taxpayer advocacy. His focus on the “Texans vs Taxes” movement indicates a commitment to reforming the state’s tax system with an emphasis on transparency and community involvement. As the elections approach, voters will have the opportunity to evaluate Berlanga’s platform against the offerings of other candidates in this vital state office.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Michael Berlanga?
- Michael Berlanga is a certified public accountant and property tax consultant running in the Republican primary for Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. He has extensive experience in Texas taxation and is actively involved in taxpayer education and advocacy.
- What is the “Texans vs Taxes” movement?
- The “Texans vs Taxes” movement is a campaign initiative led by Michael Berlanga aimed at empowering taxpayers through education and grassroots organizing. It focuses on forming taxpayer associations in all 254 counties and emphasizes transparency, accountability, and taxpayer protection.
- When is the Republican primary for Texas Comptroller?
- The Republican primary for Texas Comptroller is scheduled for March 3, 2026. Voters will choose among candidates including Kelly Hancock, Christi Craddick, Don Huffines, and Michael Berlanga.
- Who are the other candidates in the Republican primary for Texas Comptroller?
- Other candidates in the Republican primary for Texas Comptroller include Kelly Hancock, acting Comptroller and former State Senator from District 9; Christi Craddick, Railroad Commissioner; and Don Huffines, former State Senator.
- When is the general election for Texas Comptroller?
- The general election for Texas Comptroller is scheduled for November 3, 2026. The winner of the Republican primary will face the Democratic nominee in this election.
| Candidate | Background | Campaign Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Berlanga | Certified public accountant and property tax consultant with extensive experience in Texas taxation. Actively involved in taxpayer education and serves on the Board of the Bexar Taxpayers Association. | Leading the “Texans vs Taxes” movement, focusing on empowering taxpayers through education and grassroots organizing. Emphasizes transparency, accountability, and taxpayer protection. |
| Kelly Hancock | Acting Comptroller and former State Senator from District 9. Appointed as acting Comptroller in July 2025. | Serving as acting Comptroller, overseeing the state’s financial operations and management. |
| Christi Craddick | Railroad Commissioner with experience in regulatory oversight and public service. | Focuses on regulatory efficiency and public service in her campaign for Comptroller. |
| Don Huffines | Former State Senator with a background in public policy and legislative affairs. | Emphasizes fiscal responsibility and government efficiency in his campaign for Comptroller. |
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