Two southeast Texas counties have elected new sheriffs. In Orange County Jimmy Lane Mooney
picked up 52% of the vote to defeat Rob Strause. Mooney, who does not have a November
opponent will replace Keith Merritt who is retiring. In Newton County, Robert Burby defeated
Cynthia Hall with 59% of the vote. Burby does not have a November opponent and will replace
Billy Rowles, who is retiring. In the Jefferson County Republican primary, David Odom won
over Emile Serda. He will face current Sheriff Zena Stephens in November. John Gothia was
elected Orange County Judge. He defeated Ernest Bayardwith 74% of the vote. Gothia was
appointed Orange County judge in June following the resignation of Dean Cooks. Looks like
there will be a runoff in Hardin County for County Commissioner Pct 3. Amanda Young and
Rusty Trest were the top two vote getters in a five person race.