Democrat Jon Rosenthal wins Texas railroad commissioner race over Bo French
Democrat Jon Rosenthal beat Republican nominee Bo French for a seat on the Texas Railroad Commission, after French's social media posts about South Asian students drew criticism, including from Republicans.
Democrat Jon Rosenthal has won a seat on the Texas Railroad Commission, beating Republican nominee Bo French. Decision Desk HQ and NBC News projected the result. The Guardian reports Rosenthal also beat a second challenger.
The Guardian describes Rosenthal as a state representative. It says he will join the three-member body, which Democrats have been shut out of for decades. The agency regulates the Texas oil and gas industry. The Guardian also notes it has not had railroad oversight since 2005.
French's campaign drew attention over social media posts about University of Texas at Austin students of South Asian descent. CBS News reports he posted a photo of students cheering at a football game. The caption said the university has a "problem" that is "far worse than anyone imagined."
The Hill reports that several prominent Texas Republicans withdrew their support from French after the posts. NBC News says fellow Republicans criticized his remarks. The Guardian reports the posts caused national backlash.
Reported by
- The HillBo French loses TX Railroad Commissioner raceWed, Nov 4, 12:53 AM EST
- NBC NewsDemocrat wins Texas railroad commissioner race after Republican Bo French faced backlash over racist commentsWed, Nov 4, 3:32 AM EST
- CBS NewsDemocrat Rosenthal wins ugly race for Texas railroad commissionerWed, Nov 4, 5:04 AM EST
- The GuardianDemocrat Jon Rosenthal elected Texas railroad commissioner over controversial Republican Bo FrenchWed, Nov 4, 2:13 PM EST
This story was written by AI using only the reports listed above, and published without a person reviewing it first. It is rewritten as new reports arrive. Read the original reporting for full detail. Spot an error? Tell us.