Bo French defeated incumbent Jim Wright in the Republican primary runoff for Texas Railroad Commissioner on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in a tight contest that highlighted deep divisions within the state GOP.
With more than 95% of precincts reporting, French held a narrow lead of roughly 50.6% to Wright’s 49.4%, prompting the former Tarrant County Republican Party chairman to declare victory late Tuesday night. The race, held across Texas following early voting that ended May 22, drew attention for its focus on cultural issues rather than traditional energy regulation.
French, an energy trader and rancher, campaigned heavily on America First priorities, defending the oil and gas industry, opposing DEI initiatives, and addressing concerns over what he called an “Islamic invasion” of Texas. Wright, appointed to the commission in 2023 and seeking a full term, emphasized his experience regulating the state’s massive energy sector, which produces nearly half of all U.S. oil.
I am deeply grateful for the support of TX Republicans across our state. Our campaign focused on defending oil and gas, and putting America First—and that’s exactly what I will continue fighting for as we turn our attention to radical Democrat Jon Rosenthal. https://t.co/fkiqFpA25V
— Bo French (@bofrench) May 27, 2026
The runoff resulted from the March 3 primary, where neither candidate secured a majority. French’s win represents a victory for the more populist wing of the Texas Republican Party over an establishment-backed incumbent supported by Gov. Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.
In November, French will face Democrat Jon Rosenthal in the general election for the at-large seat on the three-member Railroad Commission. Democrats have not won a seat on the commission in decades, making French the heavy favorite.
The Railroad Commission oversees Texas’ powerful oil, gas, and pipeline industries, as well as aspects of mining and alternative energy. The outcome could influence future policy on energy production, permitting, and environmental regulation across the state.
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