Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has announced the appointment of Jimmy Blacklock as Chief Justice and James P. Sullivan as Justice, Place 2, on the Supreme Court of Texas. These appointments are effective until December 31, 2026.

Governor Abbott praised the outgoing Chief Justice Nathan Hecht for his long service, stating, "With more than 35 years on the bench, Chief Justice Nathan Hecht is the state’s longest-serving Justice on the Supreme Court of Texas, and I am grateful for his dedication to the rule of law and his service to our great state.” Abbott expressed confidence in Blacklock's capabilities by noting that he "has been a principled jurist while serving on the highest court in Texas and will be steadfast in his commitment to the rule of law as the Court’s next Chief Justice."

James P. Sullivan's appointment was also highlighted by Governor Abbott: "As General Counsel for the Office of the Governor, James Sullivan has provided superior legal advice and rendered opinions on some of the most consequential legal issues in Texas. He has the integrity, temperament, and experience Texas needs as a Texas Supreme Court Justice."

Jimmy Blacklock has been part of the Texas Supreme Court since January 2018. His previous experience includes clerking for Judge Jerry Smith on the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals and practicing civil litigation and appeals in Houston and Austin. Blacklock also served six years in the Texas Attorney General's office before becoming Governor Abbott's General Counsel.

James P. Sullivan has been serving as Governor Abbott's General Counsel since November 2021. His career includes roles such as Deputy General Counsel to the Governor and Assistant Solicitor General of Texas. Sullivan also worked as a law clerk for Judge Thomas B. Griffith on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit.

Both appointees are members of professional organizations including the Federalist Society.