Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough has announced his bid for a third term. He cites his leadership through major storms, wildfires, and the pandemic as reasons voters should keep him in office.
Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough announced his candidacy for a third term on Thursday, revealing his re-election campaign. He emphasized his commitment to what he describes as "model conservative leadership" in Texas.
Keough, who departed from the Texas House of Representatives in 2018 to take on the county’s highest elected role, stated that a series of responses to ongoing crises have characterized his tenure.
In a recent statement, he expressed optimism about the future, stating that a third term would enable the ongoing development of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Montgomery County. Officials have reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a steady trajectory, emphasizing the importance of improved infrastructure, bolstered support for law enforcement agencies, and a focus on fiscal responsibility.
Since assuming office in January 2019, Keough has encountered unprecedented challenges. Just months later, the county faced its first significant challenge as Tropical Storm Imelda brought unprecedented levels of rainfall, resulting in widespread inundation. In March 2020, Montgomery County reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19, signaling the onset of a pandemic that would affect the region for more than a year.
In 2021, Keough's leadership faced a significant challenge as a rare arctic blast struck Texas, resulting in widespread power outages and water shortages for residents.
In recent developments, he urged utility officials to expedite power restoration following Hurricane Beryl in 2024. He was key in coordinating emergency response efforts during the 2,400-acre Pauline Road wildfire in March.
In addition to addressing natural disasters, Keough has advocated for enhanced safety measures, notably launching a petition aimed at installing barriers on the Texas 242 flyover following two tragic suicides at the location. He has consistently turned down his annual pay raise, establishing himself as a fiscal conservative dedicated to curbing government expenditures.
Before embarking on a political career, Keough established a multifaceted professional background. With more than twenty years of experience in the automobile sector, he dedicated 14 years to serving as the general sales manager at Northside Lexus, located in Harris County.
He subsequently transitioned to ministry, establishing Mark Keough Ministries and taking the helm of Pathfinders Fellowship in The Woodlands. He has held various roles, including pastor, radio host, and headmaster of a private Christian school.
Keough has earned degrees from Cedarville University and two theological seminaries. He and his wife, Kim, are the proud parents of four children.
In a statement regarding his potential re-election, Keough emphasized that his priorities will continue to include enhancing infrastructure, bolstering law enforcement, and maintaining fiscal discipline in Montgomery County as Texas experiences significant growth.
