A former city manager and Navy veteran has announced a campaign for Texas House District 23.
Nathan Watkins, the former city manager of Mont Belvieu, announced earlier this month that he would be running to serve House District 23 in the Texas House of Representatives. The current office holder, Terri Leo-Wilson, who was elected in 2023, will be seeking re-election. Wilson and Watkins will face off in the republican primary.
Watkins is a Naval Special Warfare Veteran. He said the skills he learned there would help him as an elected official.
“Texas needs proven leaders who run toward hard problems and finish the mission,” said Watkins. “As a member of the Naval Special Boat Teams, I led combat operations supporting SEALs and other national assets on missions that achieved major successes for Joint Special Operations Command. In Iraq, I learned what courage, discipline and teamwork really mean. I’m ready to bring that same mindset to Austin and fight for the people of District 23.”
As city manager of Mont Belvieu, Watkins fought for transparency and fiscal discipline. He oversaw responsible growth, improved critical infrastructure, strengthened public safety and protected taxpayer dollars with integrity and accountability, according to his campaign.
“At city hall, I saw how conservative principles deliver measurable results,” Watkins said. “Families deserve safe neighborhoods, dependable infrastructure, and a fairer tax system that lets them build a future here in Texas.”
Watkins said if he is elected, he will follow a mission-first leadership style. He plans to focus on property tax relief, public safety and reliable and affordable energy.