Mayes Middleton

David Mayes Middleton II is a former American politician and businessman who served as a member of the Texas House of Representatives for District 23 from January 8, 2019, until 2023. A member of the Republican Party, he gained recognition for his political activities and was involved in various legislative committees during his tenure. Following his time in the Texas House, Middleton transitioned to the Texas Senate, where he represents the 11th district and is also the Republican nominee for Texas Attorney General in the upcoming 2026 election.

Early life and career

David Mayes Middleton II was born on September 18, 1981, in Wallisville, Texas, an unincorporated community located in northern Chambers County. He is the son of John Gregg Middleton, who named him after his late brother, David Mayes Middleton. Middleton completed his early education at The Kinkaid School in Houston, Texas, where he developed a foundation for his future academic pursuits. He later attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a degree in finance. Following his undergraduate studies, he pursued a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Texas Law School, equipping him with legal knowledge that would later inform his political career.

In addition to his academic achievements, Middleton has built a career in the business sector. He serves as the president of Middleton Oil Company, an independent oil and gas company that operates primarily in South Texas and along the Gulf Coast. The company is relatively small, employing three individuals and generating an estimated annual revenue of approximately $800,000. Beyond his role in the oil industry, Middleton is involved in ranching, cattle, and farming operations across several counties in Texas, including Chambers, Jefferson, Kimble, Liberty, and Webb Counties. His business acumen is further demonstrated through his position on the Board of Directors of First Liberty National Bank, a community bank with multiple locations in Texas.

Legislative service

Middleton's political career began when he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives for District 23 in November 2018. He successfully unseated the two-term incumbent representative Wayne Faircloth, who was affiliated with House Speaker Joe Straus. In the general election held on November 6, 2018, Middleton defeated Democrat Amanda Jamrok, marking the beginning of his legislative journey. He was re-elected in 2020, running unopposed in the Republican primary and defeating Democrat Jeff Antonelli in the general election.

During his time in the Texas House, Middleton was active in various legislative committees. In the 86th legislative session, he served on committees such as Coastal Barrier System, Elections, Local & Consent Calendars, and Urban Affairs. His involvement in these committees allowed him to engage with a range of issues pertinent to his constituents and the state of Texas. In the subsequent 87th legislative session, he was assigned to committees including Insurance, Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence, Local & Consent Calendars, the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory, and the Texas Infrastructure Resiliency Fund Advisory.

Middleton's leadership capabilities were recognized when he served as the Chairman of the Texas Freedom Caucus, a group that promotes conservative principles within the Texas legislature. His tenure in the House of Representatives was characterized by a commitment to conservative values and a focus on legislative initiatives that aligned with his party's platform.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Texas House of Representatives, Middleton's policy focus reflected the interests and needs of his constituents in District 23. His legislative priorities included issues related to insurance, water management, and infrastructure resilience, which are critical for the communities he represented. The district encompasses a diverse population with varying needs, and Middleton's committee assignments allowed him to address these concerns effectively.

In 2021, Middleton announced his candidacy for the Texas Senate, seeking to represent the 11th district. His campaign received significant attention, particularly following the endorsement from former President Donald Trump, who praised Middleton's leadership and conservative voting record. This endorsement played a role in bolstering his visibility and support among Republican voters. Middleton was elected to the Texas Senate in the 2022 general election without opposition, further solidifying his position within the state's political landscape.

In the Senate, Middleton has continued to serve on various committees, including Administration, Business & Commerce, Education, and Jurisprudence, among others. His role as Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on Higher Education indicates a commitment to educational issues, which are vital for the development of Texas's workforce and economy.

Middleton's political journey reflects a blend of business experience and legislative service, positioning him as a notable figure in Texas politics. His ongoing involvement in the state legislature and his candidacy for Texas Attorney General in 2026 suggest a continued commitment to public service and the Republican Party's objectives in Texas. As he navigates his political career, Middleton remains focused on addressing the challenges facing his constituents and advocating for policies that align with his party's values.