Huffines and Eckhardt Square Off in Race for Texas Comptroller

In the heart of Texas politics, Don Huffines, who currently holds the position of Texas Comptroller, is set to face a challenge from State Senator Sarah Eckhardt in the race for the same office. This contest marks a pivotal moment in the Lone Star State’s political landscape, as both candidates vie for the influential role that oversees the state’s financial affairs.

Huffines, who secured the Republican nomination for the comptroller seat in March 2026, was appointed to the position by Governor Greg Abbott in July of the same year. However, recent scrutiny has been cast upon Huffines due to his management of a firm called Huffines Enterprises Science & Technology (HEST), which he did not disclose on required state forms. This oversight has raised eyebrows among political observers and could potentially impact public perception of his candidacy.

HEST, established in 2022, has garnered attention for its investment in SpaceX, a company known for its groundbreaking work in space exploration and technology. The involvement of Huffines’ sons, Colin and Russell, as managers of HEST adds another layer to the narrative surrounding the candidate’s business interests and family ties.

Meanwhile, Eckhardt, a State Senator from Austin, enters the race with her own set of credentials and experiences. Her campaign aims to highlight her legislative achievements and her vision for the future of Texas’s economic stability and growth.

The race for Texas Comptroller promises to be closely watched, with both candidates presenting distinct visions for the state’s fiscal future and drawing attention to their respective strengths and backgrounds.

What we know

• Don Huffines is the current Texas Comptroller ¹²
• Don Huffines did not disclose his role managing a firm on required state forms ¹²
• The firm in question is named Huffines Enterprises Science & Technology (HEST) ¹²
• HEST invests in SpaceX ¹²
• Sarah Eckhardt is running against Don Huffines for Texas Comptroller ³
• HEST was established in 2022 ²
• Huffines' sons, Colin and Russell, are listed as managers of HEST ²
• Huffines won the Republican primary for the comptroller seat in March 2026 ²
• Huffines was appointed as Comptroller in July 2026 by Governor Greg Abbott ²
• Sarah Eckhardt is a State Senator from Austin ³