Burkett Reelected as Local GOP Chairman

SAN ANGELO, TX -  The Tom Green County Republican Party Chairmanship was contested before Super Tuesday as Ruth Station challenged incumbent chair Bruce Burkett.

According to the latest election results, Burkett secured his victory with 2,089 more votes over Staton.

Staton received 5,182 votes compared to Burkett's 7,271. Burkett will hold his position for two years before he is up for election again. He has held this position since 2019. 

“I feel blessed,” Burkett said. “It was a busy election season, and it took a toll on everybody. I am glad it’s over with, and we’re on to the next project, which will be the county convention.”

He explained that after the primary election, a precinct and county convention must occur, at which all votes are counted, canvassed, and processed. 

Originally pressed into service by the previous Chair, Burkett responded to the call to lead during what he perceived as a critical election.

“We were coming up on what I thought was a critical election, and he said that he was going to leave whether he found a replacement or not,” Burkett said. “I went ahead and volunteered.”

Burkett believes his qualifications for the position stem from a lifetime dedicated to public service. His journey includes four years in the Navy and 45 years in law enforcement.

His law enforcement career commenced with the San Angelo Police Department, leading to roles with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and the Bell County Sheriff’s Department.

Burkett's journey then led him back to San Angelo, where he worked for the National Park Police.

Expressing a sense of obligation to contribute to the community, Burkett highlights the unpaid nature of the Republican Chair position, emphasizing the need for a dedicated team.

“You have to have a good set of people willing to help because there's a lot to the job,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Burkett reveals a genuine enjoyment of the election process.

“I just like it; it’s a lot of fun to interact with everybody just trying to get out there and do their part for public service,” Burkett said.