Austin R. Kelly, Commissioner of Agriculture

Austin R. Kelly

Libertarian

Running for Commissioner of Agriculture.

Background

Kelly is a natural resource consultant and former Texas A&M lecturer in rangeland, botany and ecology. He was nominated at the Libertarian convention in April 2026.

Occupation: Ecologist; founder, ARK Ecological Consulting
Education: Ph.D. (ecology)
Hometown: Comanche County; lives in Bandera

Website

Positions

Priorities for This Office

What does the candidate say they would prioritize in this office?

Aquifer conservation without state seizure of groundwater rights, fewer regulations on family farms and hemp, protection from eminent domain, and ending subsidies.

Relevant Experience

What experience does the candidate cite as qualifying them for this office?

Cites scientific training in ecology and rangeland, consulting work with landowners, and small farm and livestock experience.

Operations and Service

What changes, if any, does the candidate propose to how the office operates or serves the public?

Would audit the Department of Agriculture to cut spending and fees, eliminate some agricultural licensing, and publish a scientific review on water and brush control.

Money

Finance figures are being checked against official FEC and Texas Ethics Commission filings and will appear here once verified.

Endorsements

No public endorsements found. Searched Oct 20, 2026.