Sheets Defeats Miller In March Vote

March 4, 2026 – Republican voters ousted three-term Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller on Tuesday, choosing political newcomer Nate Sheets as their nominee for the statewide post. The Associated Press called the race early Wednesday morning, signaling a decisive victory for Sheets in the Republican primary.

Sheets celebrated the win at an election watch party in Plano, where Gov. Greg Abbott phoned to congratulate him. Abbott told Sheets he looked forward to working together, underscoring the high-profile backing that helped propel the first-time candidate to victory. Abbott and Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham had endorsed Sheets, sharply criticizing Miller’s record in office.

On social media, Sheets thanked grassroots conservatives across Texas. “While a few votes remain to be counted, the direction of this race is clear,” he posted. “Texans are ready for new leadership and we are ready to get to work.”

Hopkins County Voters favored Miller over Sheets by about 19%.

Sheets, a ranch owner and founder of a national raw honey company, has no prior elected experience. He previously served six years in the U.S. Naval Reserve, graduated from Texas State University, and worked as communications director for an evangelist ministry. He has voiced support for the “Make America Healthy Again” movement promoted by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Miller, first elected in 2014, weathered multiple ethics controversies during his tenure, including investigations into travel spending and the indictment of a longtime consultant. Despite past endorsements from former President Donald Trump, Miller fell short this cycle.

Sheets will face Democrat Clayton Tucker in November’s general election.