John E. Burt Announces Candidacy for Jasper County Criminal District Attorney

John E. Burt, candidate for Jasper County Criminal District Attorney. Photo courtesy of the Burt campaign.

JASPER COUNTY — Jasper County native John E. Burt has officially announced his candidacy for Criminal District Attorney, seeking the Republican nomination in the upcoming March 3, 2026 primary election.

Burt, who currently serves as an Assistant Criminal District Attorney in Newton County, is no stranger to public service in Southeast Texas. Before entering law, he dedicated much of his career to education — working as a teacher, coach, principal, and later Superintendent of Buna ISD. After transitioning into private legal practice, he went on to prosecute cases for Newton County.

“I cannot think of a greater honor at this time than to serve Jasper County as the Criminal District Attorney,” Burt said. “I take my job very seriously and always strive to do my personal best to ensure that the State of Texas and the interests of county residents are properly represented in our criminal justice system. I approach each task with honesty and fairness, ultimately seeking justice.”

Burt emphasizes his deep local roots and family ties. His immediate family is from the Buna area, though his connections stretch across Jasper County. He and his wife, Cathy Burt, have been married for 34 years and are longtime Buna residents. Cathy has worked at Buna ISD as an accounts payable clerk for more than 27 years.

The couple raised two daughters, both graduates of Buna ISD. Their oldest now teaches third grade at Little Cypress Intermediate School, while the youngest works as a labor and delivery nurse at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans. Both sons-in-law are employed with STI Group, helping manage construction projects.

Burt said his family’s foundation is built on their Christian faith. “We are first and foremost believers in Jesus Christ,” he noted, explaining that faith has guided both his personal and professional life.

Looking ahead, Burt said he is eager to meet with Jasper County residents in the coming months. “I would like to take this opportunity to ask for your vote and support in the upcoming Republican primary election,” he said. “I look forward to meeting and visiting with as many of you as possible.”