Jake Ellzey: Difference between revisions
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| name = Jake Ellzey | | name = Jake Ellzey | ||
| birth_name = John Kevin Ellzey | | birth_name = John Kevin Ellzey | ||
| birth_date = {{ | | birth_date = {{birth date and age|1970|1|24}} | ||
| birth_place = [[Amarillo, Texas]], U.S. | | birth_place = [[Amarillo, Texas]], U.S. | ||
| nationality = American | | nationality = American | ||
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| known_for = U.S. Representative for [[Texas's 6th congressional district]] | | known_for = U.S. Representative for [[Texas's 6th congressional district]] | ||
| awards = | | awards = | ||
| website = [https://ellzey.house.gov/ | | website = [https://ellzey.house.gov/ ellzey.house.gov] | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''John Kevin "Jake" Ellzey Sr.''' (born January 24, 1970) is an American politician and retired [[United States Navy]] officer serving as the [[United States House of Representatives|U.S. representative]] for [[Texas's 6th congressional district]] since July 2021. A member of the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]], Ellzey won a special election runoff to fill the seat left vacant by the death of [[Ron Wright (politician)|Ron Wright]], defeating a field | '''John Kevin "Jake" Ellzey Sr.''' (born January 24, 1970) is an American politician and retired [[United States Navy]] officer serving as the [[United States House of Representatives|U.S. representative]] for [[Texas's 6th congressional district]] since July 2021. A member of the [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]], Ellzey won a special election runoff to fill the seat left vacant by the death of [[Ron Wright (politician)|Ron Wright]], defeating a field that included a candidate endorsed by former President [[Donald Trump]]. Before his election to Congress, Ellzey briefly served in the [[Texas House of Representatives]] representing the 10th district from January to July 2021.<ref name="ballotpedia">{{cite web |title=Jake Ellzey |url=https://ballotpedia.org/Jake_Ellzey |publisher=Ballotpedia |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> His path to political office followed a two-decade military career in which he served as a naval aviator and fighter pilot, achieving the rank of [[Commander (United States)|Commander]] and completing combat tours during the [[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|War in Afghanistan]] and the [[Iraq War]].<ref name="ballotpedia" /> Ellzey's congressional victory in the July 2021 runoff drew national attention as a test of Trump's influence within the Republican Party, with Ellzey prevailing despite lacking the former president's endorsement.<ref name="wsj">{{cite news |title=Texas Special Election Tests Trump's Influence in GOP |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/texas-special-election-tests-trumps-influence-in-gop-11627390823 |work=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
== Early Life == | == Early Life == | ||
Jake Ellzey was born John Kevin Ellzey on January 24, 1970, in [[Amarillo, Texas]].<ref name="ballotpedia" /> He grew up in Texas and pursued a path toward military service from an early age. Details | Jake Ellzey was born John Kevin Ellzey on January 24, 1970, in [[Amarillo, Texas]].<ref name="ballotpedia" /> He grew up in Texas and pursued a path toward military service from an early age. Ellzey's upbringing in the [[Texas Panhandle]] shaped his connection to rural and conservative communities, a background he would later draw upon in his political campaigns. Details regarding his parents and family upbringing during his formative years in Amarillo are limited in publicly available sources. | ||
Ellzey's | Ellzey's decision to pursue a military career led him to seek an appointment to the [[United States Naval Academy]] in [[Annapolis, Maryland]], one of the nation's premier service academies. His admission to the Naval Academy set the stage for a career that would span two decades of military service before his transition into Texas politics.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> | ||
== Education == | == Education == | ||
Ellzey attended the [[United States Naval Academy]] in | Ellzey attended the [[United States Naval Academy]] in Annapolis, Maryland, where he earned a [[Bachelor of Science]] degree.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> The Naval Academy's rigorous academic and military training program prepared Ellzey for his subsequent career as a naval aviator. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as an officer in the [[United States Navy]], beginning a military career that would last from 1992 to 2012.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> | ||
== Career == | == Career == | ||
| Line 31: | Line 31: | ||
=== Military Service === | === Military Service === | ||
Ellzey served in the [[United States Navy]] from 1992 to 2012, a | Ellzey served in the [[United States Navy]] from 1992 to 2012, a period spanning two decades that included some of the most significant American military engagements of the post–[[Cold War]] era.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> He trained as a naval aviator and fighter pilot, serving in operational roles that took him to combat zones in both [[Afghanistan]] and [[Iraq]]. | ||
Ellzey | During the [[War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)|War in Afghanistan]], which began following the [[September 11 attacks]] in 2001, Ellzey participated in combat operations as part of the United States' military response. He also served during the [[Iraq War]], which commenced in 2003.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> His service in both theaters of conflict formed a central part of his biographical narrative in subsequent political campaigns. | ||
Ellzey rose through the ranks of the Navy officer corps, ultimately achieving the rank of [[Commander (United States)|Commander]] before his retirement from active duty in 2012.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> The rank of Commander in the U.S. Navy is an [[Senior officer (armed forces)|senior officer]] grade, equivalent to a [[Lieutenant colonel (United States)|lieutenant colonel]] in the other branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. | |||
Following his retirement from the Navy, Ellzey transitioned to civilian life in Texas, eventually settling in the areas south of the [[Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex]] that would later form part of his political constituency.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> | |||
=== 2018 Congressional Campaign === | === 2018 Congressional Campaign === | ||
Ellzey first sought elected office in 2018, when he ran in the Republican primary for [[Texas's 6th congressional district]]. The seat was then held by Republican [[Joe Barton]], who had announced he would not seek re-election. The ''[[The Dallas Morning News|Dallas Morning News]]'' editorial board endorsed Ellzey in the Republican primary, recommending him to voters as a candidate for the 6th Congressional District seat.<ref name="dmn-endorse">{{cite news |title=We recommend Jake Ellzey in the GOP primary for 6th Congressional District |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/editorials/2018/02/08/we-recommend-jake-ellzey-in-the-gop-primary-for-6th-congressional-district |work=The Dallas Morning News |date=2018-02-08 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Despite the endorsement, Ellzey did not prevail in the primary, which was ultimately won by [[Ron Wright (politician)|Ron Wright]], a longtime [[Tarrant County, Texas|Tarrant County]] official who went on to win the general election.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> | |||
The 2018 campaign nonetheless raised Ellzey's profile in the district and established him as a known figure in Republican politics in the region. His military background and campaign experience positioned him for future political endeavors.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> | |||
=== Texas House of Representatives === | === Texas House of Representatives === | ||
In 2020, Ellzey ran for the [[Texas House of Representatives]] in District 10, a seat that had been held by Republican [[John Wray (politician)|John Wray]].<ref name="ballotpedia" /> Ellzey won the Republican primary for the seat on March 3, 2020, securing his place on the general election ballot.<ref name="waxahachie-primary">{{cite news |title=Ellzey wins Texas House District 10 primary |url=https://www.waxahachietx.com/news/20200303/ellzey-wins-texas-house-district-10-primary |work=Waxahachie Daily Light |date=2020-03-03 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | |||
During the | During the primary campaign, Ellzey participated in candidate forums alongside other Republican contenders for the District 10 seat.<ref name="brownwood-forum">{{cite news |title=Forum set for Texas House candidates |url=https://www.brownwoodtx.com/news/20200205/forum-set-for-texas-house-candidates |work=Brownwood Bulletin |date=2020-02-05 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Local media outlets covered the race, which drew multiple Republicans vying for the open seat.<ref name="cedarcreek">{{cite web |title=Politics – Republicans vy for District 10 Texas House seat |url=https://www.cedarcreeklake.com/politics--republicans-vy-for-district-10-texas-house-seat/1269 |publisher=Cedar Creek Lake |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
His tenure in the Texas House | Ellzey went on to win the November 2020 general election and was sworn into office on January 12, 2021.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> His tenure in the Texas House proved brief, however, as events at the federal level soon presented a new political opportunity. Ellzey served as a state representative until July 30, 2021, when he resigned to take his seat in the U.S. Congress. He was succeeded in the Texas House by [[Brian Harrison (politician)|Brian Harrison]].<ref name="ballotpedia" /> | ||
=== | During his time in the Texas House, Ellzey was listed in the official Texas legislative directory and participated in the 87th Texas Legislature.<ref name="txdirectory">{{cite web |title=Jake Ellzey |url=https://www.txdirectory.com/online/person/?id=66020&office=16801 |publisher=Texas Directory |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref name="txhouse">{{cite web |title=Texas House of Representatives Press Release |url=https://house.texas.gov/news/press-releases/?id=7254 |publisher=Texas House of Representatives |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
=== 2021 Special Election for Texas's 6th Congressional District === | |||
The death of Congressman [[Ron Wright (politician)|Ron Wright]] on February 7, 2021, created a vacancy in [[Texas's 6th congressional district]]. Wright, who had won the seat in 2018 after defeating Ellzey in the Republican primary, died after contracting [[COVID-19]]. Texas Governor [[Greg Abbott]] called a special election to fill the vacancy.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> | |||
==== | Ellzey, then a freshman state representative, announced his candidacy for the open congressional seat on February 26, 2021, joining a crowded field of candidates from both parties.<ref name="dmn-joins">{{cite news |title=Freshman state Rep. Jake Ellzey joins crowded race to replace Republican Ron Wright in Congress |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2021/02/26/freshman-state-rep-jake-ellzey-joins-crowded-race-to-replace-republican-ron-wright-in-congress |work=The Dallas Morning News |date=2021-02-26 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
The | ==== Special Election First Round ==== | ||
The special election was held on May 1, 2021. Under Texas special election rules, all candidates from all parties appeared on a single ballot, with a runoff between the top two vote-getters required if no candidate received a majority.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> The race attracted significant national attention, in part because of the involvement of [[Susan Wright]], the widow of Ron Wright, who received the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.<ref name="wsj" /> | |||
The first round of voting on May 1, 2021, produced results that sent Susan Wright and Jake Ellzey to a runoff election. Democrats failed to advance a candidate to the runoff, a result that was noted by national media as significant for the party's prospects in the district.<ref name="cnn-special">{{cite news |title=Texas 6th District special election |url=https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/02/politics/texas-6th-district-special-election/index.html |work=CNN |date=2021-05-02 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref name="wapo-special">{{cite news |title=Texas Democrats concede lockout in House special election |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/texas-democrats-concede-lockout-in-house-special-election/2021/05/02/3043fc5c-ab59-11eb-ab4c-986555a1c511_story.html |work=The Washington Post |date=2021-05-02 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | |||
The ''[[Texas Tribune]]'' reported on the first-round results and the dynamics of the race heading into the runoff.<ref name="txtribune-results">{{cite news |title=Texas 6th Congressional election results |url=https://www.texastribune.org/2021/05/01/texas-6th-congressional-election-results |work=The Texas Tribune |date=2021-05-01 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | |||
==== Runoff Election ==== | ==== Runoff Election ==== | ||
The runoff between Ellzey and Susan Wright was held on July 27, 2021, and | The runoff between Ellzey and Susan Wright was held on July 27, 2021, and drew national attention as a test of former President Trump's influence within the Republican Party. Trump had endorsed Susan Wright, and the race was framed by many political observers as a proxy battle over the direction of the GOP.<ref name="wsj" /> | ||
The ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' characterized the special election as a significant test of Trump's sway over Republican voters, noting that the outcome would be closely watched for signals about the former president's ability to determine the results of intra-party contests.<ref name="wsj" /> | |||
Ellzey was sworn in as | Ellzey won the runoff election, defeating Susan Wright despite her Trump endorsement. The ''[[Texas Tribune]]'' covered the runoff extensively, reporting on the candidates' strategies and the broader political implications of the contest.<ref name="txtribune-runoff">{{cite news |title=Texas Congressional District 6 runoff election |url=https://www.texastribune.org/2021/05/12/texas-congressional-district-6-runoff-election |work=The Texas Tribune |date=2021-05-12 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Election results were tracked by Decision Desk HQ and other election data organizations.<ref name="ddhq">{{cite web |title=TX-06 Special Election Results |url=https://decisiondeskhq.com/tx06-special-election-results |publisher=Decision Desk HQ |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
Ellzey's victory was seen as a notable instance in which a Trump endorsement did not carry a Republican candidate to victory, drawing commentary from political analysts and media outlets across the political spectrum.<ref name="wsj" /><ref name="cnn-special" /> | |||
==== Swearing-In ==== | |||
Ellzey was sworn in as the representative for Texas's 6th congressional district on July 30, 2021, succeeding Ron Wright. The oath of office was administered by [[Nancy Pelosi|Speaker Nancy Pelosi]]. The ''Dallas Morning News'' reported that Ellzey had "mended fences" with former President Trump ahead of his swearing-in, suggesting a rapprochement following the contentious runoff campaign.<ref name="dmn-swornin">{{cite news |title=Jake Ellzey, fence mended with Trump, is sworn in by Pelosi as Texas' newest congressman |url=https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2021/07/30/jake-ellzey-fence-mended-with-trump-is-sworn-in-by-pelosi-as-texas-newest-congressman/ |work=The Dallas Morning News |date=2021-07-30 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref name="dmn-swornin-archive">{{cite web |title=Jake Ellzey, fence mended with Trump, is sworn in by Pelosi as Texas' newest congressman (archived) |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210730211827/https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2021/07/30/jake-ellzey-fence-mended-with-trump-is-sworn-in-by-pelosi-as-texas-newest-congressman/ |publisher=The Dallas Morning News (via Internet Archive) |date=2021-07-30 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | |||
=== Congressional Tenure === | === Congressional Tenure === | ||
==== Legislative Priorities and Committee Work ==== | |||
As a member of Congress, Ellzey has served on congressional committees and engaged in legislative work spanning a range of policy areas. He has served on the [[United States House Committee on Small Business|House Committee on Small Business]], where he has been involved in issues related to rural development, energy, and supply chains. In January 2025, the House Committee on Small Business's Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Supply Chains held a hearing focused on empowering rural America through investment in innovation, an issue Ellzey highlighted as part of his committee work.<ref name="smallbiz">{{cite web |title=Ellzey: "Empowering Rural America Through Investment in Innovation" |url=https://smallbusiness.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407372 |publisher=House Committee on Small Business |date=2025-01-01 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | |||
==== Election Integrity Legislation ==== | ==== Election Integrity Legislation ==== | ||
In | In February 2026, Ellzey voted in favor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, legislation aimed at requiring proof of citizenship before voting in federal elections. Ellzey publicly advocated for the bill, explaining his position in media appearances and interviews. In a February 2026 interview with WFAA's ''Inside Texas Politics'', Ellzey explained his reasoning for supporting the proof-of-citizenship requirement, framing it as a measure to strengthen election integrity.<ref name="wfaa-citizenship">{{cite news |title=US Rep. Jake Ellzey explains why he wants Americans to show proof of citizenship before voting |url=https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/inside-politics/texas-politics/us-rep-jake-ellzey-explains-why-wants-americans-show-proof-citizenship-before-voting/287-1c0efa72-4037-4bd0-ab96-65d8d51b9882 |work=WFAA |date=2026-02-21 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref name="wfaa-interview">{{cite news |title=Inside Texas Politics: Full interview on proposed voting bill with US Rep. Jake Ellzey |url=https://www.wfaa.com/video/news/politics/inside-politics/texas-politics/inside-texas-politics-full-interview-proposed-voting-bill-us-rep-jake-ellzey/287-4134ac54-1ba8-4f67-b40d-686a72360bda |work=WFAA |date=2026-02-21 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
==== | The ''Waxahachie Sun'' reported on Ellzey's vote in favor of the SAVE Act, noting that the legislation was intended to strengthen election integrity by requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration.<ref name="waxahachie-save">{{cite news |title=Congressman Jake Ellzey Votes to Strengthen Election Integrity with SAVE Act |url=https://www.waxahachiesun.com/news/congressman-jake-ellzey-votes-to-strengthen-election-integrity-with-save-act/article_6f956b43-7ab8-4480-baa7-c1ba95f6a46c.html |work=Waxahachie Sun |date=2026-02-23 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
==== Foreign Policy ==== | |||
== | Ellzey has engaged in foreign policy discussions during his time in Congress. In July 2025, the [[Hudson Institute]], a Washington, D.C.–based think tank, scheduled an event titled "The State of Republican Foreign Policy" featuring Ellzey, though the event was postponed.<ref name="hudson">{{cite web |title=Postponed: The State of Republican Foreign Policy with Congressman Jake Ellzey |url=https://www.hudson.org/events/postponed-state-republican-foreign-policy-congressman-jake-ellzey |publisher=Hudson Institute |date=2025-07-19 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
==== 2026 Reelection and Redistricting ==== | |||
=== | Following Texas's post-2020 redistricting process, the boundaries of the 6th congressional district and surrounding districts were redrawn. KERA News reported in February 2026 that [[Tarrant County, Texas|Tarrant County]] would be divided among five congressional districts, affecting the political landscape for representatives including Ellzey. The report noted the candidates running in the March 2026 primary elections across the districts that include portions of Tarrant County.<ref name="kera">{{cite news |title=Tarrant now has 5 congressional districts. Here's who's running in the March primary |url=https://www.keranews.org/elections-2026/2026-02-18/tarrant-now-has-5-congressional-districts-heres-whos-running-in-the-march-primary |work=KERA News |date=2026-02-18 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
In a fourth-quarter 2025 filing with the [[Federal Election Commission]], Ellzey's campaign disclosed $310,000 in new fundraising, reflecting continued campaign financial activity ahead of the 2026 election cycle.<ref name="quiver">{{cite web |title=Fundraising Update: Representative Jake Ellzey just disclosed $310.0K of new fundraising |url=https://www.quiverquant.com/news/Fundraising+Update%3A+Representative+Jake+Ellzey+just+disclosed+%24310.0K+of+new+fundraising |publisher=Quiver Quantitative |date=2026-02-01 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | |||
==== Constituent Relations ==== | |||
In | In February 2026, the ''Waxahachie Sun'' published an interview with Ellzey in which the congressman addressed criticisms regarding several of his votes, describing the conversation as an opportunity to "set the record straight" with constituents in the district.<ref name="waxahachie-record">{{cite news |title=Setting the record straight: a conversation with Congressman Jake Ellzey |url=https://www.waxahachiesun.com/opinion/columnists/setting-the-record-straight-a-conversation-with-congressman-jake-ellzey/article_403a28be-53d9-4512-9613-aaff45a09649.html |work=Waxahachie Sun |date=2026-02-17 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | ||
== Personal Life == | == Personal Life == | ||
Ellzey is married to Shelby Hoebeke, and the couple has two children.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> The family resides in the area encompassed by | Ellzey is married to Shelby Hoebeke, and the couple has two children.<ref name="ballotpedia" /> The family resides in the area encompassed by Texas's 6th congressional district, which includes communities in the suburban and exurban areas south of the [[Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex]]. | ||
Ellzey's military background has remained a prominent element of his public identity. His service as a Navy fighter pilot and his combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq are frequently referenced in his official biographical materials and campaign communications.<ref name="ballotpedia" /><ref name="ellzeyhouse">{{cite web |title=Congressman Jake Ellzey |url=https://ellzey.house.gov/ |publisher=Office of U.S. Representative Jake Ellzey |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> | |||
== Recognition == | == Recognition == | ||
Ellzey's | Ellzey's 2021 special election victory received significant coverage from national news outlets, including [[CNN]], ''[[The Washington Post]]'', ''[[The Wall Street Journal]]'', and the ''[[Texas Tribune]]'', largely because of the implications the race held for assessing former President Trump's influence within the Republican Party.<ref name="wsj" /><ref name="cnn-special" /><ref name="wapo-special" /> | ||
The ''[[The Dallas Morning News|Dallas Morning News]]'' editorial board endorsed Ellzey during his first run for the 6th congressional district in the 2018 Republican primary.<ref name="dmn-endorse" /> His subsequent successful special election campaign in 2021 further elevated his profile in Texas Republican politics. | |||
Ellzey's invitation to speak at the [[Hudson Institute]] on the subject of Republican foreign policy reflected his standing as a Republican voice on national security and foreign affairs issues, drawing on his military background.<ref name="hudson" /> | |||
== References == | == References == | ||
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[[Category:United States Naval Academy alumni]] | [[Category:United States Naval Academy alumni]] | ||
[[Category:United States Navy officers]] | [[Category:United States Navy officers]] | ||
[[Category:United States Navy | [[Category:United States Navy pilots]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:American military personnel of the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)]] | ||
[[Category:American military personnel of the Iraq War]] | |||
[[Category:Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives from Texas]] | [[Category:Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives from Texas]] | ||
[[Category:Republican Party members of the Texas House of Representatives]] | [[Category:Republican Party members of the Texas House of Representatives]] | ||
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[[Category:Texas's 6th congressional district]] | [[Category:Texas's 6th congressional district]] | ||
[[Category:21st-century American politicians]] | [[Category:21st-century American politicians]] | ||
[[Category:Military personnel from Texas]] | [[Category:Military personnel from Texas]] | ||
<html><script type="application/ld+json"> | <html><script type="application/ld+json"> | ||
Latest revision as of 17:55, 24 February 2026
| Jake Ellzey | |
| Born | John Kevin Ellzey 24 1, 1970 |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Amarillo, Texas, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Politician, former military officer |
| Known for | U.S. Representative for Texas's 6th congressional district |
| Education | United States Naval Academy (BS) |
| Spouse(s) | Shelby Hoebeke |
| Children | 2 |
| Website | [ellzey.house.gov Official site] |
John Kevin "Jake" Ellzey Sr. (born January 24, 1970) is an American politician and retired United States Navy officer serving as the U.S. representative for Texas's 6th congressional district since July 2021. A member of the Republican Party, Ellzey won a special election runoff to fill the seat left vacant by the death of Ron Wright, defeating a field that included a candidate endorsed by former President Donald Trump. Before his election to Congress, Ellzey briefly served in the Texas House of Representatives representing the 10th district from January to July 2021.[1] His path to political office followed a two-decade military career in which he served as a naval aviator and fighter pilot, achieving the rank of Commander and completing combat tours during the War in Afghanistan and the Iraq War.[1] Ellzey's congressional victory in the July 2021 runoff drew national attention as a test of Trump's influence within the Republican Party, with Ellzey prevailing despite lacking the former president's endorsement.[2]
Early Life
Jake Ellzey was born John Kevin Ellzey on January 24, 1970, in Amarillo, Texas.[1] He grew up in Texas and pursued a path toward military service from an early age. Ellzey's upbringing in the Texas Panhandle shaped his connection to rural and conservative communities, a background he would later draw upon in his political campaigns. Details regarding his parents and family upbringing during his formative years in Amarillo are limited in publicly available sources.
Ellzey's decision to pursue a military career led him to seek an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, one of the nation's premier service academies. His admission to the Naval Academy set the stage for a career that would span two decades of military service before his transition into Texas politics.[1]
Education
Ellzey attended the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree.[1] The Naval Academy's rigorous academic and military training program prepared Ellzey for his subsequent career as a naval aviator. Upon graduation, he was commissioned as an officer in the United States Navy, beginning a military career that would last from 1992 to 2012.[1]
Career
Military Service
Ellzey served in the United States Navy from 1992 to 2012, a period spanning two decades that included some of the most significant American military engagements of the post–Cold War era.[1] He trained as a naval aviator and fighter pilot, serving in operational roles that took him to combat zones in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
During the War in Afghanistan, which began following the September 11 attacks in 2001, Ellzey participated in combat operations as part of the United States' military response. He also served during the Iraq War, which commenced in 2003.[1] His service in both theaters of conflict formed a central part of his biographical narrative in subsequent political campaigns.
Ellzey rose through the ranks of the Navy officer corps, ultimately achieving the rank of Commander before his retirement from active duty in 2012.[1] The rank of Commander in the U.S. Navy is an senior officer grade, equivalent to a lieutenant colonel in the other branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Following his retirement from the Navy, Ellzey transitioned to civilian life in Texas, eventually settling in the areas south of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex that would later form part of his political constituency.[1]
2018 Congressional Campaign
Ellzey first sought elected office in 2018, when he ran in the Republican primary for Texas's 6th congressional district. The seat was then held by Republican Joe Barton, who had announced he would not seek re-election. The Dallas Morning News editorial board endorsed Ellzey in the Republican primary, recommending him to voters as a candidate for the 6th Congressional District seat.[3] Despite the endorsement, Ellzey did not prevail in the primary, which was ultimately won by Ron Wright, a longtime Tarrant County official who went on to win the general election.[1]
The 2018 campaign nonetheless raised Ellzey's profile in the district and established him as a known figure in Republican politics in the region. His military background and campaign experience positioned him for future political endeavors.[1]
Texas House of Representatives
In 2020, Ellzey ran for the Texas House of Representatives in District 10, a seat that had been held by Republican John Wray.[1] Ellzey won the Republican primary for the seat on March 3, 2020, securing his place on the general election ballot.[4]
During the primary campaign, Ellzey participated in candidate forums alongside other Republican contenders for the District 10 seat.[5] Local media outlets covered the race, which drew multiple Republicans vying for the open seat.[6]
Ellzey went on to win the November 2020 general election and was sworn into office on January 12, 2021.[1] His tenure in the Texas House proved brief, however, as events at the federal level soon presented a new political opportunity. Ellzey served as a state representative until July 30, 2021, when he resigned to take his seat in the U.S. Congress. He was succeeded in the Texas House by Brian Harrison.[1]
During his time in the Texas House, Ellzey was listed in the official Texas legislative directory and participated in the 87th Texas Legislature.[7][8]
2021 Special Election for Texas's 6th Congressional District
The death of Congressman Ron Wright on February 7, 2021, created a vacancy in Texas's 6th congressional district. Wright, who had won the seat in 2018 after defeating Ellzey in the Republican primary, died after contracting COVID-19. Texas Governor Greg Abbott called a special election to fill the vacancy.[1]
Ellzey, then a freshman state representative, announced his candidacy for the open congressional seat on February 26, 2021, joining a crowded field of candidates from both parties.[9]
Special Election First Round
The special election was held on May 1, 2021. Under Texas special election rules, all candidates from all parties appeared on a single ballot, with a runoff between the top two vote-getters required if no candidate received a majority.[1] The race attracted significant national attention, in part because of the involvement of Susan Wright, the widow of Ron Wright, who received the endorsement of former President Donald Trump.[2]
The first round of voting on May 1, 2021, produced results that sent Susan Wright and Jake Ellzey to a runoff election. Democrats failed to advance a candidate to the runoff, a result that was noted by national media as significant for the party's prospects in the district.[10][11]
The Texas Tribune reported on the first-round results and the dynamics of the race heading into the runoff.[12]
Runoff Election
The runoff between Ellzey and Susan Wright was held on July 27, 2021, and drew national attention as a test of former President Trump's influence within the Republican Party. Trump had endorsed Susan Wright, and the race was framed by many political observers as a proxy battle over the direction of the GOP.[2]
The Wall Street Journal characterized the special election as a significant test of Trump's sway over Republican voters, noting that the outcome would be closely watched for signals about the former president's ability to determine the results of intra-party contests.[2]
Ellzey won the runoff election, defeating Susan Wright despite her Trump endorsement. The Texas Tribune covered the runoff extensively, reporting on the candidates' strategies and the broader political implications of the contest.[13] Election results were tracked by Decision Desk HQ and other election data organizations.[14]
Ellzey's victory was seen as a notable instance in which a Trump endorsement did not carry a Republican candidate to victory, drawing commentary from political analysts and media outlets across the political spectrum.[2][10]
Swearing-In
Ellzey was sworn in as the representative for Texas's 6th congressional district on July 30, 2021, succeeding Ron Wright. The oath of office was administered by Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The Dallas Morning News reported that Ellzey had "mended fences" with former President Trump ahead of his swearing-in, suggesting a rapprochement following the contentious runoff campaign.[15][16]
Congressional Tenure
Legislative Priorities and Committee Work
As a member of Congress, Ellzey has served on congressional committees and engaged in legislative work spanning a range of policy areas. He has served on the House Committee on Small Business, where he has been involved in issues related to rural development, energy, and supply chains. In January 2025, the House Committee on Small Business's Subcommittee on Rural Development, Energy, and Supply Chains held a hearing focused on empowering rural America through investment in innovation, an issue Ellzey highlighted as part of his committee work.[17]
Election Integrity Legislation
In February 2026, Ellzey voted in favor of the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, legislation aimed at requiring proof of citizenship before voting in federal elections. Ellzey publicly advocated for the bill, explaining his position in media appearances and interviews. In a February 2026 interview with WFAA's Inside Texas Politics, Ellzey explained his reasoning for supporting the proof-of-citizenship requirement, framing it as a measure to strengthen election integrity.[18][19]
The Waxahachie Sun reported on Ellzey's vote in favor of the SAVE Act, noting that the legislation was intended to strengthen election integrity by requiring proof of citizenship for voter registration.[20]
Foreign Policy
Ellzey has engaged in foreign policy discussions during his time in Congress. In July 2025, the Hudson Institute, a Washington, D.C.–based think tank, scheduled an event titled "The State of Republican Foreign Policy" featuring Ellzey, though the event was postponed.[21]
2026 Reelection and Redistricting
Following Texas's post-2020 redistricting process, the boundaries of the 6th congressional district and surrounding districts were redrawn. KERA News reported in February 2026 that Tarrant County would be divided among five congressional districts, affecting the political landscape for representatives including Ellzey. The report noted the candidates running in the March 2026 primary elections across the districts that include portions of Tarrant County.[22]
In a fourth-quarter 2025 filing with the Federal Election Commission, Ellzey's campaign disclosed $310,000 in new fundraising, reflecting continued campaign financial activity ahead of the 2026 election cycle.[23]
Constituent Relations
In February 2026, the Waxahachie Sun published an interview with Ellzey in which the congressman addressed criticisms regarding several of his votes, describing the conversation as an opportunity to "set the record straight" with constituents in the district.[24]
Personal Life
Ellzey is married to Shelby Hoebeke, and the couple has two children.[1] The family resides in the area encompassed by Texas's 6th congressional district, which includes communities in the suburban and exurban areas south of the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex.
Ellzey's military background has remained a prominent element of his public identity. His service as a Navy fighter pilot and his combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq are frequently referenced in his official biographical materials and campaign communications.[1][25]
Recognition
Ellzey's 2021 special election victory received significant coverage from national news outlets, including CNN, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Texas Tribune, largely because of the implications the race held for assessing former President Trump's influence within the Republican Party.[2][10][11]
The Dallas Morning News editorial board endorsed Ellzey during his first run for the 6th congressional district in the 2018 Republican primary.[3] His subsequent successful special election campaign in 2021 further elevated his profile in Texas Republican politics.
Ellzey's invitation to speak at the Hudson Institute on the subject of Republican foreign policy reflected his standing as a Republican voice on national security and foreign affairs issues, drawing on his military background.[21]
References
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 "Jake Ellzey".Ballotpedia.https://ballotpedia.org/Jake_Ellzey.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 "Texas Special Election Tests Trump's Influence in GOP".The Wall Street Journal.https://www.wsj.com/articles/texas-special-election-tests-trumps-influence-in-gop-11627390823.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "We recommend Jake Ellzey in the GOP primary for 6th Congressional District".The Dallas Morning News.2018-02-08.https://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/editorials/2018/02/08/we-recommend-jake-ellzey-in-the-gop-primary-for-6th-congressional-district.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Ellzey wins Texas House District 10 primary".Waxahachie Daily Light.2020-03-03.https://www.waxahachietx.com/news/20200303/ellzey-wins-texas-house-district-10-primary.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Forum set for Texas House candidates".Brownwood Bulletin.2020-02-05.https://www.brownwoodtx.com/news/20200205/forum-set-for-texas-house-candidates.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Politics – Republicans vy for District 10 Texas House seat".Cedar Creek Lake.https://www.cedarcreeklake.com/politics--republicans-vy-for-district-10-texas-house-seat/1269.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Jake Ellzey".Texas Directory.https://www.txdirectory.com/online/person/?id=66020&office=16801.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Texas House of Representatives Press Release".Texas House of Representatives.https://house.texas.gov/news/press-releases/?id=7254.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Freshman state Rep. Jake Ellzey joins crowded race to replace Republican Ron Wright in Congress".The Dallas Morning News.2021-02-26.https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2021/02/26/freshman-state-rep-jake-ellzey-joins-crowded-race-to-replace-republican-ron-wright-in-congress.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 "Texas 6th District special election".CNN.2021-05-02.https://www.cnn.com/2021/05/02/politics/texas-6th-district-special-election/index.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 "Texas Democrats concede lockout in House special election".The Washington Post.2021-05-02.https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/texas-democrats-concede-lockout-in-house-special-election/2021/05/02/3043fc5c-ab59-11eb-ab4c-986555a1c511_story.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Texas 6th Congressional election results".The Texas Tribune.2021-05-01.https://www.texastribune.org/2021/05/01/texas-6th-congressional-election-results.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Texas Congressional District 6 runoff election".The Texas Tribune.2021-05-12.https://www.texastribune.org/2021/05/12/texas-congressional-district-6-runoff-election.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "TX-06 Special Election Results".Decision Desk HQ.https://decisiondeskhq.com/tx06-special-election-results.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Jake Ellzey, fence mended with Trump, is sworn in by Pelosi as Texas' newest congressman".The Dallas Morning News.2021-07-30.https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2021/07/30/jake-ellzey-fence-mended-with-trump-is-sworn-in-by-pelosi-as-texas-newest-congressman/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Jake Ellzey, fence mended with Trump, is sworn in by Pelosi as Texas' newest congressman (archived)".The Dallas Morning News (via Internet Archive).2021-07-30.https://web.archive.org/web/20210730211827/https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2021/07/30/jake-ellzey-fence-mended-with-trump-is-sworn-in-by-pelosi-as-texas-newest-congressman/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Ellzey: "Empowering Rural America Through Investment in Innovation"".House Committee on Small Business.2025-01-01.https://smallbusiness.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407372.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "US Rep. Jake Ellzey explains why he wants Americans to show proof of citizenship before voting".WFAA.2026-02-21.https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/politics/inside-politics/texas-politics/us-rep-jake-ellzey-explains-why-wants-americans-show-proof-citizenship-before-voting/287-1c0efa72-4037-4bd0-ab96-65d8d51b9882.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Inside Texas Politics: Full interview on proposed voting bill with US Rep. Jake Ellzey".WFAA.2026-02-21.https://www.wfaa.com/video/news/politics/inside-politics/texas-politics/inside-texas-politics-full-interview-proposed-voting-bill-us-rep-jake-ellzey/287-4134ac54-1ba8-4f67-b40d-686a72360bda.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Congressman Jake Ellzey Votes to Strengthen Election Integrity with SAVE Act".Waxahachie Sun.2026-02-23.https://www.waxahachiesun.com/news/congressman-jake-ellzey-votes-to-strengthen-election-integrity-with-save-act/article_6f956b43-7ab8-4480-baa7-c1ba95f6a46c.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ 21.0 21.1 "Postponed: The State of Republican Foreign Policy with Congressman Jake Ellzey".Hudson Institute.2025-07-19.https://www.hudson.org/events/postponed-state-republican-foreign-policy-congressman-jake-ellzey.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Tarrant now has 5 congressional districts. Here's who's running in the March primary".KERA News.2026-02-18.https://www.keranews.org/elections-2026/2026-02-18/tarrant-now-has-5-congressional-districts-heres-whos-running-in-the-march-primary.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Fundraising Update: Representative Jake Ellzey just disclosed $310.0K of new fundraising".Quiver Quantitative.2026-02-01.https://www.quiverquant.com/news/Fundraising+Update%3A+Representative+Jake+Ellzey+just+disclosed+%24310.0K+of+new+fundraising.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Setting the record straight: a conversation with Congressman Jake Ellzey".Waxahachie Sun.2026-02-17.https://www.waxahachiesun.com/opinion/columnists/setting-the-record-straight-a-conversation-with-congressman-jake-ellzey/article_403a28be-53d9-4512-9613-aaff45a09649.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- ↑ "Congressman Jake Ellzey".Office of U.S. Representative Jake Ellzey.https://ellzey.house.gov/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
- 1970 births
- Living people
- People from Amarillo, Texas
- United States Naval Academy alumni
- United States Navy officers
- United States Navy pilots
- American military personnel of the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021)
- American military personnel of the Iraq War
- Republican Party members of the United States House of Representatives from Texas
- Republican Party members of the Texas House of Representatives
- Members of the United States House of Representatives from Texas
- Texas's 6th congressional district
- 21st-century American politicians
- Military personnel from Texas