San Antonio, Texas, February 7, 2026
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is under pressure as he faces a significant primary challenge from State Representative James White. Miller’s campaign, seeking a fourth term, is affected by various controversies, including a trip funded by state money, a contentious dress code policy, and criticism over his handling of recent wildfires. As the Republican primary approaches, Miller must navigate these challenges to secure his position.
San Antonio, Texas – February 7, 2026
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller Faces Primary Challenge Amid Controversies
San Antonio, Texas – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is facing a significant primary challenge as he seeks re-election for a fourth term. The three-term incumbent is effectively the underdog in the primary, with several controversies impacting his campaign.
Primary Challenge and Political Climate
In the upcoming Republican primary, Miller is being challenged by State Representative James White of Hillister. White announced his campaign in June 2021, and Miller won the March 2022 Republican primary with 58.5% of the vote, defeating White, who received 31.1%, and a third candidate, rancher and economics professor Carey Counsil, who garnered 10.4% of the votes.
Recent Controversies Affecting Miller
Several recent controversies have affected Miller’s political standing:
- 2015 Rodeo Trip: In December 2018, the Texas Ethics Commission fined Miller $500 for using state funds for a trip to a Mississippi rodeo in February 2015. Miller initially stated he intended to meet with agriculture officials, but when those meetings did not occur, he reimbursed the state using campaign funds.
- Dress Code Policy: In April 2023, Miller issued a memo requiring Texas Department of Agriculture employees to dress “consistent with their biological gender.” This policy was criticized by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and raised concerns about potential discrimination.
- Handling of Wildfires: During the devastating wildfires in the Panhandle in 2024, rancher Lee Wells expressed frustration with Miller’s response, stating that Miller was defensive and did not adequately address the concerns of farmers and ranchers.
Background on Sid Miller
Sid Miller is an eighth-generation farmer and rancher who has served as the Texas Agriculture Commissioner since 2015. He was first elected to the position in 2014 and re-elected in 2018 and 2022. Throughout his tenure, Miller has been known for his outspoken support of former President Donald Trump and his advocacy for Texas agriculture.
As the primary approaches, Miller’s campaign will need to address these controversies to maintain his position as Agriculture Commissioner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Sid Miller?
Sid Miller is an eighth-generation farmer and rancher who has served as the Texas Agriculture Commissioner since 2015. He was first elected to the position in 2014 and re-elected in 2018 and 2022.
What controversies have affected Sid Miller’s campaign?
Several controversies have impacted Miller’s campaign, including:
- 2015 Rodeo Trip: In December 2018, the Texas Ethics Commission fined Miller $500 for using state funds for a trip to a Mississippi rodeo in February 2015.
- Dress Code Policy: In April 2023, Miller issued a memo requiring Texas Department of Agriculture employees to dress “consistent with their biological gender,” which was criticized by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups.
- Handling of Wildfires: During the 2024 wildfires in the Panhandle, rancher Lee Wells expressed frustration with Miller’s response, stating that Miller was defensive and did not adequately address the concerns of farmers and ranchers.
Who is challenging Sid Miller in the Republican primary?
State Representative James White of Hillister is challenging Miller in the upcoming Republican primary. White announced his campaign in June 2021, and Miller won the March 2022 Republican primary with 58.5% of the vote, defeating White, who received 31.1%, and a third candidate, rancher and economics professor Carey Counsil, who garnered 10.4% of the votes.
What is Sid Miller’s background?
Sid Miller is an eighth-generation farmer and rancher who has served as the Texas Agriculture Commissioner since 2015. He was first elected to the position in 2014 and re-elected in 2018 and 2022. Throughout his tenure, Miller has been known for his outspoken support of former President Donald Trump and his advocacy for Texas agriculture.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Challenge | State Representative James White challenges Sid Miller in the Republican primary for Agriculture Commissioner. |
| Controversies | Includes the 2015 Rodeo Trip, Dress Code Policy, and Handling of Wildfires. |
| Background | Sid Miller’s tenure as Texas Agriculture Commissioner and his support for former President Donald Trump. |
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