Potter County Judge Nancy Tanner announced Tuesday night that she will not seek re-election, marking the end of a 35-year career in Potter County government and 11 years serving as the county’s top elected administrative official. Tanner shared the news in a public post on social media, where she reflected on her tenure and the decision to step aside when her current term ends.
Tanner, who was first elected as Potter County Judge in 2014, became the first woman in the county’s history to hold the position. Her announcement emphasized both gratitude and a belief that it is time for new leadership.
“Ok friends and family… this is a long post and I apologize but it needs to be done… After much thought and prayer, I have decided not to seek re-election as Potter County Judge,” Tanner wrote.
The county judge position in Texas differs from the judicial roles in many other states. In Texas, the county judge presides over the commissioners court, oversees county operations and budgets, and may handle certain judicial duties, particularly in smaller counties. In larger counties like Potter, the position primarily functions as a chief executive role in local government.
Tanner noted that serving in this capacity has been a defining part of her professional life.
“Serving the citizens of Potter County has been the greatest honor of my professional life. For the past 35 years, I have had the privilege of working for our county— and for the past 11 of those years, I have been humbled to serve as your County Judge,” she wrote. “When I was first elected, I was honored to become the first woman to hold this position in our county’s history. Every day since, I have tried to lead with integrity, compassion and deep commitment to the people who call Potter County home.”
During her time in office, Tanner oversaw periods of growth and transition in county services and infrastructure. In her announcement, she highlighted several major projects completed during her tenure. One was the Law Enforcement Center, finished in 2018, which replaced aging facilities to provide updated space and technology for the Potter County Sheriff’s Office and jail operations. Another was the construction of a five-story, 158,000-square-foot District Courthouse, designed to meet both modern security standards and the demands of expanding court dockets in the region.
“We completed a new Law Enforcement Center in 2018— a much needed, modern facility designed to help our law enforcement officers do their jobs more efficiently and safely. We also designed and completed construction of our new District Courthouse, a five-story, 158,000 square-foot facility that brings modern technology and modern security to our judges and courts which serve all the citizens of our county,” Tanner wrote.
She also pointed to her work in expanding mental health care access as a core focus of her administration. In particular, Tanner cited her collaboration with state leaders to secure a new state mental hospital for Amarillo, currently under development and expected to open in 2026. Once operational, the hospital will serve a multi-county region across the Texas Panhandle.
“I have been especially passionate about improving mental health services in our community. I was privileged to work closely with Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Senator Kevin Sparks on bringing a new state mental hospital to Amarillo (which will open in 2026). This project was one of the most meaningful milestones in my time in office,” Tanner wrote. “I believe it represents hope and healing for many families across our region and will positively impact our Panhandle region for decades to come.”
Tanner also addressed the period of uncertainty and challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that the county worked to adapt services and operations while maintaining public access and governmental continuity.
“Together, we have faced enormous challenges and celebrated meaningful progress. We navigated the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic and came through it stronger as a community,” she wrote.
In reflecting on her colleagues, Tanner emphasized that accomplishments during her tenure were collaborative efforts involving county employees, department leaders, and commissioners.
“I am deeply grateful to my fellow County employees, our Commissioners, and all of those who have worked along beside me to make our county the best it has ever been. It has truly been a team effort,” she wrote. “I am also grateful to the citizens of Potter County for your trust, your support, and your patience through the challenges we've faced together.”
As she prepares to step away from public office, Tanner said the timing felt right.
“There is a time to lead and a time to hand over the reins. I know in my heart that now is the time for me to step aside and make way for a fresh leader— someone ready to bring new energy, new ideas, and new solutions to the big challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our county,” she wrote.
Tanner closed her announcement with appreciation and optimism.
“I am hopeful for our future, and I am so grateful, Potter County, that you allowed me the privilege to serve you.”
