Who can call a special election in Texas?

In Texas, the authority to call a special election typically resides with the governor or a local governing authority. This power is outlined in state law, which allows the governor to make decisions regarding state-level special elections, particularly in situations like filling vacancies or voting on specific issues. Similarly, local governing bodies—such as city councils or county commissioners—are empowered to call special elections for local matters.

This mechanism ensures that special elections can be organized to address urgent issues or fill positions that arise unexpectedly, helping to maintain a functioning government and responsive representation for citizens. The options indicating that any registered voter, a local community, or the state legislature can unilaterally call a special election do not align with the established legal framework guiding elections in Texas.