Secretary of State Jane Nelson

AUSTIN, TEXAS (News Release) - Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced that Dave Nelson (no relation to the Secretary) will serve as Deputy Secretary of State beginning March 1, 2024.

“Dave Nelson brings 25 years of state government experience and will provide steady leadership to our agency as we work to fulfill our mission and serve the people of Texas,” Secretary Nelson said.

Mr. Nelson is a graduate of Southern Methodist University. His career in public service includes leadership roles at the Texas Health & Human Services Commission and in the Texas Senate, where he served as Director of the Senate Finance Committee and Chief of Staff. He also has experience in the private sector.

“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,” Dave Nelson said.

The Deputy Secretary of State oversees day-to-day operations of the agency under the direction of the Secretary and fulfills the duties of the Secretary when she is out of state.