Gov. Greg Abbott (R-TX) appointed Justice Jimmy Blacklock, a conservative ally of the governor, to serve as the chief justice on the Texas Supreme Court. Blacklock will replace Nathan Hecht, the state court’s longest-serving justice,

Blacklock is replacing retired Chief Justice Nathan Hecht, while Abbott's legal adviser James Sullivan takes the open spot on the bench.

The governor is calling for an expansion of in-state anti-terrorism programs and an increase in federal partnerships.

Governor Abbott issued a directive to the Texas Department of Public Safety, focusing on the prevention and protection of our local communities.