The leadership change comes as Texas Republicans prepare for the November elections while continuing to push priorities including election integrity, border security, property tax relief, and other conservative policy initiatives.
Vice Chair D’rinda Randall defeated George and will take over as chairwoman of the Republican Party of Texas.
George was first elected chairman in 2024, succeeding former Chairman Matt Rinaldi. During his reelection campaign, George ran alongside Amanda Hopper, wife of state Rep. Andy Hopper (R-District 64), who sought the vice chair position.
George’s tenure coincided with several major Republican legislative victories during the 2025 legislative session. Under his leadership, the Texas GOP also pursued litigation seeking to close the state’s Republican primary to non-Republican voters.
Turnout Concerns Shadowed Race
Despite those accomplishments, concerns emerged among some Republicans following the 2026 primary elections, particularly over turnout trends and Democratic engagement.
“Look, I think everybody’s incredibly nervous about what happened during the primaries,” GOP operative Trey Trainor told The Texas Tribune.
“They see that the Democrat Party is incredibly engaged. I think the low turnout that you see here shows some apathy of Republican voters, and they really look to the party leadership to create that enthusiasm and drive people to the polls,” Trainor said.
The leadership race became one of the most closely watched contests at the state convention as delegates weighed the party’s recent successes against concerns about future voter turnout and grassroots engagement.
George Calls For Unity
Following the election, George congratulated incoming Chairwoman D’rinda Randall and urged Republicans to unite ahead of the November elections.
“While this race has come to an end, our mission continues. Now is the time to come together, unite behind our Republican nominees, support the entire Republican ticket in November, advance our legislative priorities in the next session, and continue standing firmly for the conservative principles outlined in our platform,” George wrote on X.
“I am grateful to everyone who supported our campaign, and I remain committed to serving our party and fighting for the values that make Texas strong,” George added.
The leadership change comes as Texas Republicans prepare for the 2026 general election cycle while continuing efforts to advance key priorities including election integrity, border security, property tax relief, and other conservative policy initiatives.
