GILMER, Texas — Former Upshur County District Attorney Billy Byrd announced Thursday he will seek the office of 115th District Court judge.

Byrd, who retired from the district attorney role on Oct. 31, announced his run at his retirement reception. Current 115th District Court Judge Dean Fowler will not be seeking re-election and his term will conclude at the end of 2026.

Byrd said he will send his application to state Republican officials Friday. The Republican primary race is set for March 3, 2026.

He served as Upshur County district attorney since 2007 and has served 24 years as a prosecutor.

The retirement reception was a time to reflect back and remember all the things the Upshur County DA's Office accomplished, Byrd said. He said he plans to administer justice firmly, fairly and

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