Navigating New TEC Compliance Rules for 2026

The Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) has updated its guidelines for the 2026 election cycle, with a heavy focus on digital transparency. If you are running ads on Facebook, Google, or even sending P2P texts, you need to be compliant.

Here are the key takeaways to keep your campaign out of hot water.

1. Video Disclosure Requirements

Any video advertising—whether on TV or digital (YouTube, Facebook Reels)—must now include a written disclosure statement at the end for at least 4 seconds.

Previously, fleeting disclaimers were common. The new guidance suggests that “readable” means it must be on screen long enough for the average viewer to actually read it.

2. “Artificial Intelligence” Labeling

A major update this cycle involves AI-generated content. If you use AI to create realistic images or audio that depicts a real person doing or saying something they did not do or say (deepfakes), you are entering dangerous legal territory.

While not banned outright in all contexts, Texas law is catching up. New statutes require clear labeling of AI-generated media to prevent voter deception. Rule of thumb: If it looks real but isn’t, label it.

3. P2P Texting Disclosures

Peer-to-peer text messages must identify who is sending the message.

• Bad: “Vote for Jim! He loves Texas.”
• Good: “Hi, this is Sarah with the Jim Smith Campaign. Can we count on your vote?”

Using our Disclaimer Generator, you can ensure you have the correct “Pol. Adv.” language for your website and printed materials.

Don’t Risk It

Fines from the TEC can be thousands of dollars, but the headlines are worse. “Candidate Fined for Ethics Violation” is not the story you want one week before early voting.

We bake compliance into every website and ad campaign we build. Contact us to ensure your digital ground game is air-tight.