Dallas businessman and former State Senator Don Huffines was sworn in as State Comptroller on Saturday, taking over for departing Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock. Huffines, the Republican nominee, faces Democrat Sarah Eckhart – an Austin-area State Senator – in November.
Huffines, who is running on a platform that includes items such as “DOGE Texas Government”, “Expose Government Corruption”, and “Run Government Like a Business”, delivered remarks at his swearing-in ceremony that emphasized his commitment to limited government, fiscal conservatism, and government transparency.
“I will bring a new urgency to ensure government at every level operates efficiently for the people it serves. The people of Texas work hard for their money, and they can make better decisions about how to spend that money than the government. At a time when families are feeling the pressure of higher housing costs, gasoline prices, grocery bills, and everyday expenses, they deserve to know that every tax dollar is being spent wisely,” said Huffines.
The new Comptroller also pledged to use the office “in ways it’s never been used,” remarking, “I want to remind you, as CFO of the eighth largest economy in the world, I have a distinct obligation to see beyond the obvious, and not just operate the agency with more efficiency, but utilizing this agency in ways it’s never been used, or thought of being used, because you see, the paradigms of the past do not dictate our future.”
In his first act as Comptroller, Huffines signed paperwork to decline his state salary.
“I will formally decline any salary or benefits associated with this office, because you see, I did not come here for a paycheck. I’m here because of my love for Texas. I’m here because I work for the people, and not the government,” he said.
Last month, Governor Greg Abbott announced his appointment of Huffines as Comptroller effective August 1. In a statement announcing the appointment, Abbott said, “Don Huffines brings the right mix of business experience and conservative principles to this vital office. He is a fifth-generation Texan, successful businessman, and proven conservative leader who puts taxpayers first. His private-sector experience and dedication to limited government make him exceptionally qualified to lead the state’s finances and protect every taxpayer dollar with integrity and accountability.”
Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows congratulated Huffines on his appointment.
“Congratulations to Comptroller Don Huffines on being sworn in today as Texas’ chief financial officer. Comptroller Huffines is putting taxpayers first from day one — refusing a state salary and making clear a top priority is rooting out wasteful government spending. Texans want a watchdog for their hard-earned dollars, and I look forward to working with him to deliver results for the Lone Star State,” said Burrows.
