Potter County Commissioner John Coffee says he is “seriously considering what the future could hold” as he weighs a potential run for another county office following Judge Nancy Tanner’s announcement that she will not seek re-election.
In a statement shared with friends and supporters this week, Coffee praised Judge Tanner for her service, thanked her for her dedication to Potter County, and confirmed that he is evaluating how best to continue serving the community.
“Recently, Judge Nancy Tanner shared with me that she does not plan to seek re-election,” Coffee wrote. “I want to take a moment to thank Judge Tanner for her years of service and dedication to Potter County.”
Coffee said the judge’s decision has prompted him to reflect and pray about his own role in the county’s future leadership.
“I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking and praying about what comes next for Potter County and how I might continue to serve in a way that makes a difference,” he said. “Many of you have reached out encouraging me to consider stepping up in a new capacity, and I’m taking that to heart.”
While Coffee stopped short of making a formal campaign announcement, he acknowledged that if he decides to seek another county office, Texas law would require him to resign from his current position as Commissioner for Precinct 3 once he announces his candidacy.
“That’s not an easy decision,” Coffee explained. “But I feel so strongly about doing what’s right for Potter County that I’m willing to take that step if it’s what’s best for the community.”
Under Texas’s “resign-to-run” provision, local officials with more than a year remaining in their term must resign before announcing for another office. Coffee said he could continue serving as a “holdover” commissioner until a replacement is appointed, but emphasized that the decision would rest with Judge Tanner.
“There’s a possibility that I could continue serving on the Commissioners Court as a ‘holdover’ until a replacement is appointed, but that’s entirely at the discretion of Judge Tanner,” he wrote. “I want to be clear that I would like to remain on the Court and continue serving if allowed, but that decision is not mine to make.”
Coffee also addressed reports that Judge Tanner plans to support a close personal friend in the upcoming race. Coffee said he respects Tanner’s choice but stressed that his focus remains on the people of Potter County, not politics.
“While I respect her decision, my focus remains on the people of Potter County — not politics or friendships,” Coffee said. “My only interest is in making sure this county stays on the right path, with strong leadership that listens, communicates, and truly works for our citizens.”
For now, Coffee said he is continuing to gather feedback and input from residents as he considers his next steps.
“At this point, I’m simply listening, gathering input, ideas, and encouragement from those I serve,” he said. “Your thoughts mean a great deal to me as I weigh the best way to continue working for the good of Potter County.”
Coffee encouraged constituents to reach out to him directly and share their thoughts as he makes his decision.
“Together, we’ve accomplished a lot, and I believe the best is yet to come,” he concluded.
