Election administration is one of the most debated aspects of American democracy, with ongoing discussions about how to ensure elections are both secure and accessible. This conversation explores a conservative perspective on election laws, voting procedures, and election administration. Participants will examine the principles that shape conservative approaches to issues such as voter identification, voter registration, absentee and mail voting, and ballot security. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the values, policy arguments, and practical considerations that inform contemporary debates over election law and implementation directly from Trump-appointed Federal Elections Commissioner, Trey Trainor. Moderated by The Honorable Larry Gonzales.
Speaker:
Commissioner Trey Trainor (R), Former Trump Administration-elected Federal Elections Commissioner
James E. "Trey" Trainor III was nominated by President Donald J. Trump and confirmed by the United States Senate on May 19, 2020. He was appointed to a term ending April 30, 2023.
Commissioner Trainor, of Driftwood, Texas, has practiced law for two decades, particularly in the areas of election law, campaign finance law and ethics. He has served as General Counsel to the Texas Secretary of State and Counsel to the Texas House Committee on Regulated Industries, and has represented the Texas Republican Party and two presidential campaigns. Commissioner Trainor has also served on the Advisory Board of the United States Election Assistance Commission. Prior to joining the Commission, Commissioner Trainor was a partner at Akerman, LLP, and had his own private practice.
Commissioner Trainor graduated from Texas A&M University (Corps of Cadets member) in 1997. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army Reserves in 2000 and earned his law degree from Texas A&M University School of Law in 2002.
Moderator:
The Honorable Larry Gonzales, Former State Representative (R-Round Rock)
Representative Larry D. Gonzales has dedicated his career to public service, fiscal responsibility, and effective government. Serving in the Texas House of Representatives from 2011 to 2018, Representative Gonzales became known for his leadership on budget transparency and state agency oversight. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Articles VI, VII, and VIII, he helped appropriate funding for 42 state agencies overseeing natural resources, business and economic development, and regulatory programs. He also served as Chairman of the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, leading efforts to streamline government operations and improve accountability across state agencies. Before his time in the legislature, Representative Gonzales built a career in public administration and communications, working in higher education and the private sector. A proud graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, he earned his B.A. in Government and later received a Master of Public Administration and Certified Public Manager credential from Texas State University. Born and raised in Texas, Representative Gonzales has long believed in pragmatic leadership rooted in service, collaboration, and results. Today, he continues to engage in civic and leadership development efforts across the state, drawing on his deep understanding of Texas government and commitment to building effective institutions.