Dutton previously served as the president of the Republican Women of Van Zandt and as a trustee of the Van Independent School District.[1]
Following the resignation of Republican Bryan Slaton on May 8, 2023,[2] Dutton ran in the November 7, 2023, special election held to succeed him. No candidate received a majority of votes, with Dutton advancing to a runoff against fellow Republican Brent Money.[1]
Dutton was supported by Congressman Lance Gooden, former Governor Rick Perry, local elected officials and grassroots supporters in her campaign, while Money received support from governor Greg Abbott, attorney general Ken Paxton, and many people on the far-right. Dutton narrowly defeated Money in the runoff, held on January 30, 2024.[1] She was sworn into office on February 14, 2024.[3]
Dutton ran for re-election but was defeated by Money in the Republican primary on March 5, 2024.[4]
