Know your ballot. Every race.

What this office does: Represents all Texans in Washington. Writes federal laws, approves presidential appointments, and votes on the federal budget.

What this office does: Represents a congressional district in Washington. Writes federal laws, votes on spending, and helps constituents work with federal agencies.

What this office does: Statewide officials oversee Texas government, public finances, legal matters, land, agriculture, and energy regulation. The Railroad Commission regulates oil and gas, not passenger trains.

What this office does: The highest Texas court for civil and juvenile matters. Reviews legal questions in cases about contracts, property, family law, and more.

What this office does: The highest Texas court for criminal cases. Reviews convictions, sentences, and questions of criminal law.

What this office does: Sets statewide curriculum standards and approves instructional materials for Texas public schools. This is not your local school board.

What this office does: Represents a state legislative district in Austin. Writes Texas laws and votes on the state budget, including public school funding.

What this office does: Reviews legal decisions by lower courts. Different appellate courts serve different jurisdictions; check the court and place listed for each race.

What this office does: Handles major civil lawsuits involving money, contracts, property, injuries, and other civil disputes.

What this office does: Handles juvenile justice cases, generally involving children ages 10–17. Judges decide matters affecting youth and their families.

What this office does: Handles felony criminal cases, including trials and sentencing.

What this office does: Handles divorce, custody, child support, protective orders, and child-protection matters.

What this office does: Leads Commissioners Court, which sets the county budget and directs county services. Despite the title, this is not a courtroom judge.

What this office does: Handles civil matters within its jurisdiction, including many claims up to $250,000 and eviction appeals.

What this office does: Handles misdemeanor criminal cases, including trials and sentencing.

What this office does: Handles wills, estates, and guardianships.

What this office does: County offices handle public legal affairs, court records, elections and records, county finances, and education services.

What this office does: Represents a county commissioner precinct on Commissioners Court. Helps oversee roads, parks, county budgets, and local services.

What this office does: Local courts for evictions, small claims, traffic cases, and other matters within their jurisdiction. A JP precinct is different from a voting precinct.

What this office does: The appraisal district determines taxable property values. Its board oversees district operations; the appraisal district does not set your tax rates.