Ellis County has a new Judge, well, almost. In a recent decision by the Ellis County Commissioners, John Wray, a former State Representative, has been tapped to fill the impending vacancy in the County Judge's seat. According to an announcement from Ellis County's official website, Wray is set to step into the role beginning May 15, replacing Judge Todd Little, who will then take on duties as the new Executive Director of the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG).
Voters won't see Wray's name on the ballot for County Judge until November 2026, when the seat goes up for election. Bringing a resume that includes stints on the Waxahachie City Council, a term as Mayor, and a notable recognition by the Waxahachie Daily Light and Midlothian Mirror as the "Most Influential Person" in 2011, Wray's political tenure has been long and varied. John Wray had interviewed with the Ellis County Commissioners’ Court on May 7th. His experience extends to legislative work, as he was elected to represent District 10 in the Texas House of Representatives in 2015, where he served on numerous committees, including Ways & Means, Public Health, and Homeland Security & Public Safety.
John Wray's appointment reflects a continuity of service and a nod to experience in local governance. On the occasion of his selection, sentiments among the commissioners seem cautiously optimistic about the future of Ellis County under the guidance of someone who has navigated both city and state government frameworks. With the Ellis County Commissioners betting on an established figure like Wray, residents are watching closely to see how well the bet will pay off beginning mid-May.
For now, the commissioners and the citizens of Ellis County await Judge John Wray's official swearing in and his take over of the responsibilities that come with the gavel. Until then, it's a matter of days before the county embarks on this new chapter of governance, led by a man with a known track record in public service.
