Houston-Area Republicans Face Party Fallout as Montgomery County GOP Withholds 2026 Support

The political landscape north of Houston shifted this week after the Montgomery County Republican Party voted to withhold support from two veteran lawmakers in the 2026 primary. State Reps. Will Metcalf and Cecil Bell Jr. both represent fast-growing areas tied closely to Houston’s economy, and the decision signals deeper tension within the local GOP.

Party leaders said the move reflects concerns about recent legislative positions taken by the two Republicans. While the vote does not remove Metcalf or Bell from office, it could reshape their reelection prospects in a county known as one of the most conservative in Texas.

What Happened

Montgomery County Republican precinct chairs voted to deny formal support to Rep. Will Metcalf of Conroe and Rep. Cecil Bell Jr. of Magnolia. The decision is unusual because county parties often back incumbent lawmakers by default.

Metcalf chairs the powerful House State Affairs Committee, while Bell has long been a key voice on infrastructure and pension issues. Their positions give the region influence at the state level, especially on policies tied to Houston’s transportation, energy, and growth corridors.

Local activists pushed for the vote after accusing both men of not aligning closely enough with the party’s priorities during the last legislative session. The lawmakers did not immediately comment on the move.

Why It Matters for Houston

Montgomery County’s political direction shapes the broader Houston region. The county remains one of the fastest-growing suburban hubs feeding the Greater Houston workforce. As a result, changes in its political leadership often impact regional policy debates.

Key issues at stake include:

• Transportation funding for the I-45 corridor.
• Energy and grid legislation influenced by Houston-area industry.
• Regional flood control priorities and state budget support.

Because both lawmakers help shape statewide policy, reduced party support could weaken their influence and shift how future legislation affecting Houston businesses and residents is negotiated.

What’s Next

The 2026 GOP primary will determine whether Metcalf and Bell hold their seats. Both could face challengers backed by the local party’s most active members. If that happens, the primary may become a test of the county’s ideological direction at a time when suburban political trends remain in flux.

Business leaders in the Houston region, especially those tied to energy, real estate, and transportation, will watch closely. Any leadership changes could alter committee assignments and the region’s leverage in Austin.

While the vote marks a significant statement by Montgomery County GOP leaders, it is only the beginning of what could become one of the most closely watched primary contests in the Houston area.

This article is a summary of reporting by the Houston Chronicle. Read the full story here.