Explore the Republican Candidates for Texas Railroad Commissioner in 2026

The Republican Candidates for Texas Railroad Commissioner: Who Are They?

As Texans gear up for the primary elections in March, five Republican candidates are vying for the position on the Texas Railroad Commission (RRC)—a crucial regulatory body overseeing the state's oil and gas industries. The contenders for this six-year term include Katherine Culbert, Hawk Dunlap, Bo French, James "Jim" Matlock, and Jim Wright, who currently serves as the incumbent. With energy regulations and environmental safety coming to the forefront of Texas politics, understanding their priorities is vital for voters.

Candidate Overview: Unique Perspectives and Priorities

Each candidate brings a distinct background and viewpoint to the race, highlighting their approaches to Texas’ energy challenges, which are escalating due to an increase in demand and environmental concerns.

• Katherine Culbert: A Process Safety Engineer, Culbert emphasizes affordability for Texans, advocating for accountability and adaptability in energy policies, especially as new technologies emerge.
• Hawk Dunlap: With over 35 years in oil and gas, Dunlap stresses the importance of transparency, aiming to empower Texans to participate actively in regulatory decisions while addressing the environmental risks that come with energy production.
• Bo French: As a lifelong member of the oil industry, French advocates for cutting regulations and decentralizing power within the RRC to streamline processes and enhance efficiency.
• James "Jim" Matlock: Despite not responding to candidate inquiries, he joins the roster with an expectation of discussing future energy strategies.
• Jim Wright*: The incumbent, Wright supports maintaining Texas as an energy leader while balancing renewable energy integration with traditional energy sources to ensure grid reliability.

Why This Election Matters to Texans

The Railroad Commission's decisions significantly impact the state's oil and gas sector, a cornerstone of Texas' economy. With a growing population demanding more energy, candidates must present viable plans that not only address current needs but also ensure future sustainability.

Voters can approach this election as not just a choice among candidates, but as a pivotal moment determining Texas' energy policies for years to come. As state representatives increasingly rely on their local input, staying informed about candidates' platforms becomes essential.

The Road to the Primary: What Voters Should Know

Early voting begins on February 17 for the March 3 Republican primary. Voters have the flexibility to choose candidates across different parties, although they must select one party ballot. This election cycle includes numerous state-wide races that could shape the future of Texas politics.

Voter Engagement: How to Prepare and Participate

Engaging with candidates’ platforms through forums, Q&A sessions, and direct outreach offers voters a chance to better understand the implications of each candidate's policies. Community Impact's initiative of providing questionnaires helps voters gauge their prospective representatives.

As a Texas voter, participating in this primary is not just essential for choosing a Railroad Commissioner but also paramount for influencing the direction of energy policies that impact everyday life.

Conclusion: Make Your Voice Heard

With the stakes higher than ever, Texans need to prepare for the upcoming primary. Educating oneself about each candidate’s vision for Texas is vital. Voice your priorities through your ballot and engage in this process actively. For continuous updates and guidance on local elections, consider visiting voter engagement platforms and local news channels, such as Community Impact or local news in Dallas.