Gary Wilton Gates Jr. is a Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives representing District 28 in Fort Bend County, part of the southwest Houston metro area. Born on July 22, 1959, in Richmond, Texas, he is a successful real estate businessman who owns a family-run business that has renovated thousands of apartment homes in Houston and created over 500 jobs. He assumed office on January 29, 2020, after winning a special runoff election against Democrat Elizabeth A. "Eliz" Markowitz by 58% to 42%. Gates serves on the House Committee on Appropriations, is Vice Chair of the House Committee on Urban Affairs and the Resolutions Calendars Committee, and chairs the Land & Resource Management Committee and Energy Resources Committee. Notable positions include support for banning Democrats from committee chairmanships while Republicans hold the majority. He and his wife, Melissa, have 13 children, are active in Grace Community Bible Church, and emphasize strong family values.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Attended Rogers State University.
• Political Experience: Elected to Texas House District 28 in a 2020 special election; re-elected since, with next election in 2026. Prior experience as a community leader and businessman applying innovative ideas to legislation focused on appropriations, urban affairs, land management, and energy resources.