DX
Download Download Now
State

TXOGA Endorsement Slate Omits Bo French, Supports House Democrats Over Railroad Commission Race

TXOGA PAC Leaves Bo French Off Endorsement Slate | Image by Texas Oil and Gas Association J͏a͏n͏u͏a͏r͏y͏ ͏9͏,͏ ͏2͏0͏2͏3͏/Facebook

The Texas Oil & Gas Association PAC’s October 26 endorsement slate backs candidates across Texas but names no one for the Railroad Commission, leaving out Republican Bo French after his September announcement that he had secured the group’s support.

The Dallas Express previously reported that French’s Democratic opponent, state Rep. Jon Rosenthal (D-District 135), followed H.R.T. Pufnstuf on Bluesky. That account promotes “Trans Slumber Party,” a website advertising online gatherings for “transgender” and “nonbinary” adults that may include nudity. Rosenthal also followed Cloudy, a “transgender-related” Bluesky account linking to OnlyFans and Fansly.

An October 17 review found that Rosenthal’s X account no longer followed Lily (@vintagelilye), which periodically publishes pornographic videos. That finding followed DX’s October 15 report. His Bluesky account continued following H.R.T. Pufnstuf and Cloudy.

The Dallas Express sought comment from TXOGA about French’s omission and its reporting on Rosenthal’s social media follows involving adult content. TXOGA had not responded as of October 28.

The omission leaves the PAC without a listed choice for the agency with primary regulatory authority over Texas’ oil and natural gas industry. The slate does not endorse Rosenthal, expressly withdraw French’s earlier endorsement or explain why the race is absent.

French’s campaign platform calls for expanding oil and gas production and cutting regulations on operators. He argues that increased production would help lower costs for Texans.


Democrats endorsed in House races

The slate endorses Republican statewide candidates including Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. Its House endorsements include Democrats Salman Bhojani of Euless, Ramón Romero Jr. of Fort Worth, Oscar Longoria of La Joya and Terry Canales of Edinburg, among others.

Supporting both parties is part of the PAC’s stated mission. Its website says it seeks resources to help Republicans and Democrats who support the industry.

The list also endorses Democrat Odus Evbagharu for House District 135, the seat Rosenthal currently represents. That endorsement is for the House race, not Rosenthal’s Railroad Commission campaign.


French’s earlier endorsement

French announced the PAC’s endorsement on September 10. In an October 26 X post, state Rep. Rafael Anchía (D-District 103), of Dallas, praised what he described as TXOGA rescinding that endorsement.


A fundraising appeal without a commission endorsement

The PAC’s website describes the oil and gas industry as “under attack” and asks supporters to fund political efforts to defend it. The October 26 slate names candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and comptroller, but none for the commission that regulates the industry.

Previous Article
CAIR Action Backs Hundreds Of Texas Candidates, Refuses To Release Questionnaires CAIR Action Backs Hundreds Of Texas Candidates, Refuses To Release Questionnaires