San Angelo Attorney Johnson Announces Candidacy for Judge

SAN ANGELO, TX — Local attorney Jana Johnson formally announced her candidacy Tuesday morning for judge of Tom Green County Court at Law #1.

Johnson made the announcement in front of the court where she’s hoping to preside, while supporters cheered her on.

“I’m excited to officially announce this,” Johnson said. “I’m running in the Republican primary, and I’m asking for your support. I’m running because our community deserves a court that is fair, honest and trusted. Those are not just words that are on a yard sign. That is how I was raised, that is how I practice law, and that’s how I’m going to serve you as your judge.”

Johnson is one of three candidates vying to replace longtime Judge Ben Nolan, who is retiring after 24 years. Her opponents are county prosecutor Leland Lacy and local attorney Jessica Skinner.

Johnson earned her law degree in 2011 from the Thomas M. Cooley Law School and currently practices law in San Angelo with her father, J.W. Johnson. 

“Over the years, I’ve gained experience in numerous areas of law, and the majority of it are areas this court practices,” Johnson said. “I’m experienced with it, not just as a paper-pusher attorney, but as a litigator. I’ve tried cases in front of judges and jurors. …

“Here’s what I’ll bring to Court of Law #1 — efficiency and accountability. Justice delayed is justice denied. Just like Judge Nolen, I will hold a tight docket. I’ll hold court on time, reduce unnecessary recess and use common sense.”

At 6 p.m. Tuesday, Johnson will hold a campaign kick-off party at the Arc Light Bar & Grill inside the Clarion Hotel at 441 Rio Concho Dr. Complimentary drinks and a buffet of hors d'oeuvres will be served. The event is open to the public.

Johnson further outlined her goals if she is elected to the bench.

“I will apply the law as it’s written, and not as I wish it was written,” Johnson said. “My rulings will uphold the law and protect the integrity of our judicial system — equally, consistently and transparently. I’ll ensure that every voice is heard, victims are respected, defendants’ rights are safeguarded, and attorneys and witnesses are treated with professionalism. Firm, fair and even-handed is what I promise.”

“I’ll respect our community values. Tom Green County is a special place. We believe in faith, family, hard work and personal responsibility. I will bring those values to the bench.”

Tom Green County's two Courts At-Law generally handle misdemeanor criminal cases, probate, justice of the peace court appeals, and civil cases. There are discussions at the county that for 2026, the courts at-law could begin hearing divorce cases. Recent state legislation offered county courts at-law the authority to hear family law cases.

The last day to file to run in the primary election is Dec. 8.

Primary Election Day is Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The last day to register to vote for the Primary Election is Feb. 2, 2026. Early voting begins Feb. 17, 2026.