My name is Michelle Gutierrez Cohen, and I'm running for Hays County Judge.
I was raised in Hays County—shaped by a community that believed in hard work, looking out for one another, and building something better together. My family moved here in 1979, coming from Section 8 housing with a dream of owning land. Three families joined forces to make that dream possible, and as the eldest daughter in a Hispanic household, I learned early what responsibility, perseverance, and accountability truly mean. Those values still guide me every day.
I bring more than 30 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, including 12 years in state government. I hold a BBA, an MBA, and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when our county failed to reach marginalized communities, I founded Hays Latinos United to fill the gap. And over the past three years as County Commissioner, I've focused on expanding services, improving public safety, strengthening infrastructure, and modernizing county government.
Hays County is growing at the center of the emerging Texas Megaregion. The choices we make now will define the next 10 to 20 years—how we move, how we grow, how we protect our natural resources, and how we support our families. Leaders have a responsibility to prepare for that future with clarity and collaboration.
Unfortunately, our current County Judge continues to divide rather than unite—choosing conflict over cooperation at a time when we need partnership the most. And it's led to disastrous consequences, such as the bungling of a major road bond that would've built infrastructure in our most underserved communities.
I believe Hays County is ready for leadership that understands where we've been and where we're going.
Hays County raised me. Now, I'm ready to help lead us forward.
