# Texas Railroad Commission election contest > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/texas-railroad-commission-election-contest > Updated: 2026-09-13T19:48:18.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. The campaign for a seat on the Texas Railroad Commission has centered on a contrast between technical industry regulation and social-political issues. Democrat Jon Rosenthal, an oil field engineer, launched his campaign by focusing on the agency’s role in regulating the oil and gas industry, specifically addressing carbon dioxide injection, data centers, and seismic activity related to wastewater disposal. Republican nominee Bo French secured the Republican nomination following a runoff election. French’s candidacy has drawn significant scrutiny and internal party friction. Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed concerns that French could ‘wreck’ the oil industry due to a perceived lack of expertise. Additionally, French has faced criticism for past inflammatory rhetoric and commentary regarding various ethnic and religious groups. While some Republican leaders have condemned his statements, others have defended him. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-13: Bo French wins Republican nomination for Texas Railroad Commissioner Bo French has secured the Republican nomination for Texas Railroad Commissioner despite facing criticism from Governor Greg Abbott and concerns regarding his history of inflammatory and racist rhetoric. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/bo-french-wins-republican-nomination-for-texas-railroad-commissioner ### 2026-08-23: Jon Rosenthal campaigns for Texas Railroad Commission seat Democratic State Rep. Jon Rosenthal has begun campaigning for the Texas Railroad Commission, focusing on oil and gas regulation ahead of a challenge from Republican Bo French. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/jon-rosenthal-campaigns-for-texas-railroad-commission-seat --- Cite as: Texas Railroad Commission election contest. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/texas-railroad-commission-election-contest