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Thursday, March 5, 2026

Nirenberg Defeats Sakai in High-Stakes Bexar County Judge Race

Voters Decided the Democratic Nominee for Bexar County Judge During the March Primary Election

Bexar County voters turned out Tuesday to decide which candidate will carry their party’s banner into the November general election for one of the most influential positions in local government — the Bexar County Judge.

In the Democratic primary, Ron Nirenberg, secured the nomination with 111,719 votes, defeating current County Judge Peter Sakai, who received 67,890 votes.

The outcome determines which Democrat will advance to the general election this fall. The Democratic nominee will face Republican candidate Patrick Von Dohlen on the November ballot.

Ron Nirenberg launches campaign to run for Bexar County Judge. Photo: Ron Nirenberg Campaign
Ron Nirenberg launches campaign to run for Bexar County Judge. Photo: Ron Nirenberg Campaign

This Race Matters

The Bexar County Judge serves as the county’s top elected official and presides over Commissioners Court, the governing body responsible for overseeing the county’s multi-billion-dollar budget, infrastructure investments, and public services.

While the title suggests a judicial role, the position functions primarily as the chief executive of county government. The judge also plays a major role in emergency management, public health responses, and long-term planning for the region’s growth.

With Bexar County continuing to expand rapidly, the next county judge will help guide decisions affecting transportation, housing, public safety, and economic development across the region.

Former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and wife Erika Prosper Nirenberg at Nirenberg's County judge announcement, November 15, 2025. Ron Nirenberg campaign
Former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and wife Erika Prosper Nirenberg at Nirenberg’s County judge announcement, November 15, 2025. Ron Nirenberg campaign

The Road to November

Following the primary, the race now shifts to the general election, where the Democratic nominee will face Republican Patrick Von Dohlen.

The general election will be held November 3, 2026, when voters across Texas head to the polls to decide federal, state, and local races.

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