Dave Nelson appointed deputy secretary of state

Dave Nelson has been named Texas’ deputy secretary of state beginning March 1, Secretary of State Jane Nelson has announced. Dave Nelson, who has no relation to Secretary Nelson, has 25 years of state government experience, most recently serving as director of communications for Texas Health and Human Services.

Nelson began his career in government in December 1998 when he joined the Texas Senate. He served in various leadership roles, including chief of staff, director of the senate finance committee, communications director and district director. He stepped away from the position in July 2022.

As deputy secretary of state, Nelson will oversee the agency’s daily operations under Secretary Nelson’s supervision. If Secretary Nelson is out of state or unavailable, Nelson will fulfill her duties.

“I am grateful to Secretary Nelson for her confidence in me and look forward to taking on this new opportunity to serve Texas and effectively carry out the important duties of this agency,” Nelson said. He will officially take over the deputy secretary of state reigns March 1, 2024.

Photo by Michael Barera