Austin R. Kelly, a Libertarian, is seeking election as Texas agriculture commissioner in the Nov. 3, 2026, general election. He faces Republican Nate Sheets and Democrat Clayton Tucker, according to the official ballot certification.
Professional background
Kelly’s campaign website describes him as an agricultural scientist and ecologist with a doctorate and identifies him as founder of ARK Ecological Consulting.
Campaign priorities
Kelly says the agriculture department should use practical, science-based decisions and field-tested water conservation while protecting groundwater and private property rights. He proposes removing regulatory barriers for family farms, protecting landowners from eminent domain abuse and making it easier for producers to sell what they grow.
His campaign also emphasizes efficient use of the department’s budget and opposition to government subsidies that favor particular businesses.
These positions come directly from Kelly’s campaign website. No submitted Surround Sound Media questionnaire answers were available for this profile.
Responses are based on public data and answers to a Surround Sound Media questionnaire if they were provided.
