FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 12, 2026
Statement on Leadership, Honesty, and Service to Texas
Round Rock, Texas — As the elected Republican Precinct Chair for Precinct 338 in Williamson County, and as a current member of the Texas State Guard, I believe strongly that those who seek public office must demonstrate honesty, integrity, and loyalty to the people they intend to serve.
It has come to my attention that Kelly Hall, who has reportedly won the race for Texas House District 19 while also running for Mayor of the City of Round Rock, is representing on his campaign website that he has served in the Texas State Guard from 2016 to Present.
His website currently states:
"2016 – Present
Texas State Guard
Serving in emergency response, disaster relief, and community outreach. A commitment to protecting and serving Texans."
This claim is not accurate.
I served in the Texas State Guard with Mr. Hall and can confirm that he has not served in the Texas State Guard for several years. Mr. Hall was discharged from the Texas State Guard, and his service did not conclude with an honorable discharge.
During his service, Mr. Hall admitted to forging official government documents, which resulted in his discharge from the organization.
Despite this, his website currently represents his Texas State Guard service as continuing to the present.
In addition, Mr. Hall’s website presents him as a veteran. While the Texas State Guard performs an important mission supporting disaster response and emergency operations within the State
of Texas, service in the Texas State Guard does not confer federal veteran status, as members are not part of the federal armed forces unless separately serving in those branches.
The men and women who serve in the Texas State Guard dedicate themselves to protecting Texans during disasters and emergencies. Their service represents loyalty, honor, and commitment to the State of Texas. That service should never be misrepresented.
Leadership requires honesty and accountability. When individuals seek positions of public trust—whether in the Texas Legislature or as Mayor of the City of Round Rock voters deserve transparency regarding their background and service.
The people of Texas, and especially the citizens of Round Rock, deserve leaders who demonstrate integrity and respect for the truth. In my view, honesty and loyalty to the State of Texas must remain the foundation of public service.
Respectfully,
John J. Gately
Republican Precinct Chair – Precinct 338
Williamson County Republican Party
Round Rock, Texas