Republican Glenn Hegar has been elected Texas comptroller, taking control of an office that has come under heightened scrutiny in recent years.
Hegar, a state senator and rice farmer, will replace Republican Susan Combs as the state's chief accountant. Combs didn't run for re-election and faced criticism for data breaches and off-the-mark revenue projections that impacted state spending.
Challenger Mike Collier was among a slate of little-known Democrats whose chances largely hinged on riding the momentum of Wendy Davis at the top of the ticket.
Hegar has served in the Legislature for a decade. He says his office will better forecast economic trends so that lawmakers can budget with greater accuracy.
To see up-to-the-minute returns from nearly 200 races across Texas, click here.