Publisher’s Note: Val Verde County Sheriff Joe Frank Martinez issued the following statement this morning.
VAL VERDE SHERIFF’S OFFICE
JOE FRANK MARTINEZ
SHERIFF
10/20/2026
In light of recent news reporting and an article published by KTSM El Paso entitled “Texas Sheriffs Endorse Greg Abbott” circulating through text messages and news outlets, I, Joe Frank Martinez, Sheriff of Val Verde County, am issuing this statement to clarify my position for the residents of our community.
I want to make it unequivocally clear that I have not issued a political endorsement of Governor Greg Abbott, and I did not authorize anyone to use my name as an endorsement. While I do appreciate and voice support for the Governor’s logistical assistance and ongoing commitment to helping Val Verde County with critical border law enforcement resources during a time of need, recognizing and appreciating state support is entirely distinct from a political endorsement. From a standpoint of serving a politically diverse constituency of both Democrats and Republicans, I made it clear to the Sheriff who submitted the endorsement that I could not endorse Governor Abbott. I also made it clear that no one from the Governor’s office ever contacted me regarding an endorsement, and that I do not need anyone speaking on my behalf.
My primary duty and sole commitment as Sheriff are the safety, security, and well-being of every resident in Val Verde County. The law enforcement challenges we face along the Texas-Mexico border require strong partnerships across all levels of government, regardless of political party, and I will continue to work closely with state officials to ensure our deputies have the tools they need to keep our community safe. As an elected law enforcement official, my job is to uphold the law, protect all citizens fairly and without bias, and focus on public safety.
I remain dedicated to serving all residents with integrity, transparency, and independence, and I encourage every citizen to exercise their right to vote in the upcoming election.
Respectfully,
Joe Frank Martinez
Sheriff, Val Verde County
