It’s almost time!
Election Day is almost here! It's approaching fast and we wanted to remind you to VOTE Jon "JT " Tipton for Justice of the Peace, Pct. 3. #JTforJPP3
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As your next Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3, I will be:
Accountable
Approachable
Accountable
to the Constituents and to the Law.
Being accountable to constituents and the law is a foundational principle of democratic governance. Elected officials are expected to represent the will of the people while also upholding legal and ethical obligations.
Accessible
Approachable
Accountable
Easy to find, approach, or contact; it reflects a commitment to being available to others through presence, communication channels, and a receptive attitude; no barriers in place.
Approachable
Approachable
Approachable
I will be easy to communicate with. I will actively listen. This also signifies that I am readily available, whether for assistance, a task, or a meaningful conversation.
Support the Campaign
Your donation is critical to our success. Please give any amount you feel led to give. Let’s make history together!
About Jon “JT” Tipton
Jon "JT" Tipton is a Texas native from Amarillo, now living on the family ranch in Kendall County. With a career spanning private investigations, security, business development, and public service, Jon is known for being resourceful, accountable, and solutions-driven.
He has founded and managed multiple businesses across security, investigations, management, and technology, as well as co-founding and producing The Texas Examiner, an investigative journalism podcast focused on quality-of-life issues in Texas. His expertise spans crisis management, operational security, and complex problem-solving. JT is affectionately known as a "Crisis Prevention, Management, and Mitigation Engineer".
JT, a veteran of the U.S. Army, Reserves, and Texas National Guard, served in support of the Gulf War, Global War on Terror, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom, while also leading disaster relief for Hurricane Katrina and the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Internationally, he advised on maritime security and anti-piracy with governments and industry leaders, contributing to the development of global maritime regulations and ISO/ANSI compliance standards.
JT is deeply committed to his community, serving as Vice Chair of the Kendall County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and actively participating in ranching, family life, writing, and volunteer work.
Across every role, JT combines leadership, experience, and a hands-on approach to deliver results and serve the people of Kendall County with integrity and dedication.
Jon "JT" Tipton for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3
Watch the announcement here!
Frequently Asked Questions
Please reach us at jtforjpp3@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
No, you do not have to be an attorney to be a Justice of the Peace in Texas; most Justice of the Peace positions are held by non-attorneys who are required to complete mandatory training in the law after being elected or appointed. While an attorney can serve as a Justice of the Peace, it is not a requirement, and the role is often filled by individuals who meet general citizen qualifications and undergo specialized training
- Minor criminal cases—Class C misdemeanors punishable by fines only (e.g., traffic violations).
- Civil cases—Small claims and disputes up to $20,000.
- Evictions—Landlord/tenant disputes and forcible entry cases.
- Truancy and juvenile matters—Enforcing school attendance laws.
- Inquests and death investigations—Determining cause of death when required.
- Administrative duties—Performing weddings, issuing warrants, and maintaining court records.
JP courts are considered "The People's Court" because they are often the legal venue closest to the average citizen, making justice accessible for minor disputes and issues.
In Texas, justice of the peace elections are partisan because the state constitution and election laws require most judicial offices to be filled through party primaries and general elections. This system dates back to Texas’s constitutional history and reflects the belief that party labels help voters understand a candidate’s general philosophy.
Supporters say partisan elections ensure accountability and give voters useful cues. Critics argue they undermine judicial independence, allow party “wave” elections to sweep judges in or out, and leave voters choosing based mostly on party rather than qualifications.
Several reform efforts have proposed moving to nonpartisan or merit-based systems, but Texas has kept partisan judicial elections.
In Texas, justices of the peace serve four-year terms. There are no term limits, so they can remain in office as long as they keep getting re-elected.
- Lack of Fresh Perspective – Long tenure can lead to outdated approaches, with less adaptation to modern laws, technology, or community needs.
- Entrenched Power – Extended service may create an imbalance where the officeholder wields disproportionate influence, discouraging challengers.
- Complacency Risk – Over time, accountability to voters may weaken if re-election becomes routine.
- Reduced Competition – Voters may have fewer choices, as many potential candidates won’t run against a long-term incumbent.
- Perception of Bias – Close ties developed over decades could raise concerns about impartiality.
- Generational Disconnect – The officeholder’s perspective may no longer reflect the priorities or culture of newer generations in the community.
JPs directly affect everyday life—deciding landlord/tenant disputes, truancy cases, traffic fines, and ensuring deaths are investigated properly.
A Justice of the Peace should impact the community by:
- Ensuring Fairness: Making impartial decisions in small claims, evictions, and minor criminal matters.
- Promoting Accountability: Upholding the law consistently, so citizens trust the process.
- Protecting the Vulnerable: Addressing truancy, family disputes, and community conflicts with justice and compassion.
- Being Accessible: Serving as a local, approachable judge for everyday legal issues.
- Being Approachable: Serving as a local, accessible judge who listens to citizens and is easy to reach.
- Building Trust: Demonstrating integrity, transparency, and responsiveness to community needs..
March 3rd, 2026 - is the primary election In Kendall County. Early voting is February 17th - 27th, 2026. This primary election will most likely determine your next Justice of the Peace. Historically there have not been any democratic candidates to run in the general election.
I bring real-world experience, accountability, accessibility, and approachability to the Justice of the Peace office. My career in private investigation, criminal defense, civil investigations, and small business gives me the skills to make fair, consistent decisions that the community can trust.
Contact Us
Better yet, meet me in person!
Please follow the campaign on social media (links at the bottom of this page) to learn more about me, the office of Justice of the Peace, and to know where I will be for meet and greets.
Jon "JT" Tipton for Justice of the Peace
Events
Below are the events where I will be available to visit with you one on one or in a group. If you can host a fund raising social at your home, please reach out to us!
10/04/2025
Campaign Announcement
10am
-
11am
Kendalia General Store
Event Details
10/04/2025
Campaign Announcement
You are invited to stop by the Kendalia General Store @ 2545 FM 473, Kendalia, TX 78027, on Saturday, October 14h, 2025 at 1000 AM for the c...
10am
-
11am
Kendalia General Store
10/30/2025
Meet the Candidate Night hosted by the Kendall County Republican Party. Join us at Tusculum Brewery
6am
-
10am
236 S Main St Boerne, Texas 78006
Event Details
10/30/2025
Meet the Candidate Night hosted by the Kendall County Republican Party. Join us at Tusculum Brewery
Fundraising meet and greet. TBD
6am
-
10am
236 S Main St Boerne, Texas 78006
Get involved!
Jon “JT” Tipton subscribes to the Code of Fair Campaign Practices.
Pol. Adv. paid for by Jon “JT” Tipton for Justice of the Peace, Pct. 3,
Maxie Zinsmeister, Treasurer
Copyright © 2025 Jon "JT" Tipton for Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3 - All Rights Reserved.
Thank you for your support!
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