The upcoming Republican primary for the Texas Railroad Commission has drawn attention due to its candidates’ focus on reforming an agency often criticized for its ties to the oil and gas industry. With allegations that the agency operates as a “rubber-stamp” for industry interests, three candidates—Katherine Culbert, Hawk Dunlap, and James Matlock—have emerged as advocates for transparency and accountability.
Katherine Culbert, a 50-year-old process safety engineer, stands out among the candidates. She emphasizes the need for the Railroad Commission to take responsibility for orphaned wells, stating that when a plugged well leaks, the agency must act regardless of historical records. In her statement for the Voter Guide, she noted, “It does not benefit Texans to have the Railroad Commission turning away from helping landowners because of an old well that is not on the books.”
The other candidates also bring noteworthy perspectives to the race. Hawk Dunlap, 55, has extensive global oil field experience and has raised concerns about landowners needing legal assistance to navigate issues that the Railroad Commission should address. James Matlock, 53, has proposed significant changes, including renaming the agency to better reflect its duties and expanding its oversight to encompass a wider range of energy sources.
While these candidates lack financial backing from the oil and gas sector, they have made strides in their fundraising efforts. According to the Texas Ethics Commission, Dunlap has amassed approximately $65,000 for his campaign, while Culbert has raised around $7,000. In contrast, incumbent Jim Wright reported over $440,000 in contributions, much of which is linked to the oil industry. This disparity highlights the challenges faced by candidates advocating for reform in a heavily funded environment.
Wright’s recent decision to recuse himself from a vote involving an oilfield waste company, due to financial ties, has drawn attention. Such recusal is rare and has prompted calls for more stringent conflict-of-interest policies within the agency. Culbert argued that “recusal needs to be mandatory,” underscoring the importance of restoring credibility to the Railroad Commission.
The perception that the agency lacks integrity has garnered national attention, even becoming a subject in popular culture, as noted in the series Landman created by Taylor Sheridan. The portrayal reflects a broader sentiment among Texans regarding the need for substantial reforms within the agency.
As the primary approaches, voters are faced with choices that could significantly impact the future direction of the Texas Railroad Commission. The candidates’ commitment to addressing conflicts of interest and their focus on protecting Texas workers and communities may resonate with constituents seeking change.
The Texas Railroad Commission’s current state, characterized by its dubious credibility, demands a serious reevaluation. Voters are encouraged to consider the candidates’ platforms closely, as their decisions in the upcoming primary could shape the regulatory landscape of Texas’s energy sector for years to come.
