I am seeking your support in my bid for re-election as Gonzales County Sheriff. It has been my honor and privilege to serve the wonderful people of Gonzales County since 2021.

I take pride in the accomplishments we have achieved over the past three years, and I remain committed to enhancing the safety and security of our community. The Gonzales County Sheriff’s Office continues to collaborate closely with all law enforcement agencies in the county, as well as our state and federal partners, to pursue justice for crimes committed within our jurisdiction. We have established a strong relationship with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and we have set up an office within the Sheriff’s Office for their agents, allowing them to better serve Gonzales County and support criminal investigations.

Gonzales County has joined Operation Lone Star to provide support during the ever-evolving border crisis. My office has engaged with the Office of the Governor and our Congressmen to ensure that the needs of Gonzales County citizens are met. Additionally, I have collaborated with the Commissioners Court to join the Sheriffs Combined Auto Theft Taskforce, assigning an agent to our county to combat auto-related thefts.

School safety remains one of my top priorities. I have worked with every school in Gonzales County to ensure that our children can attend school without fear. This year, I hosted two school safety events where all school districts and area first responders collaborated to share new ideas and initiatives, keeping this critical issue at the forefront. Several staff members and I have been trained as CRAISE instructors to provide active shooter training to civilians within the county. Furthermore, I am in the process of establishing a Gonzales County Active Threat Committee to proactively plan for potential threats, involving all first responders.

My leadership team is focused on recruiting and retaining the best-qualified personnel in jail, dispatch, and patrol to meet and exceed the needs of our citizens. In today’s challenging environment, attracting and keeping top talent is a significant struggle. Every agency in the state faces recruitment and retention challenges. I will continue to work with the Commissioners Court to explore innovative solutions to this dilemma.

I was honored to participate in the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Sheriffs Institute Training Academy in Quantico, Virginia, where I received invaluable training in developing an executive team, maintaining professional ethics, fostering community trust, leading my agency through crises, managing conflicts, and effective communication. I also learned about decision-making, addressing biases, leading through change, and building external partnerships. I was privileged to graduate on May 10, 2024, among twenty-eight sheriffs from across the country as part of the 122nd graduating class.

I look forward to continuing to serve you, our community, and all of Gonzales County, and I humbly ask for your vote and support.

Sheriff Keith A. Schmidt

• President of Schmidt & Sons, Inc.
• Former Fire Chief of Gonzales, TX
• Current Gonzales County Fire Marshal
• Certified Texas Peace Officer

• Proven Leadership.
• Proficient in Information Technology.
• Skilled Personnel Management Expertise.

Duties of A Sheriff

• Serves as a Licensed Peace Officer.
• Responsible for Enforcing Criminal Laws of the State.
• Manages and Operates the County Jail.
• Provides Security for the Courts.
• Serves Warrants and Civil Papers.
• Regulates Bail Bondsmen.