The Texas Railroad Commission race has drawn scrutiny from Builders Bloc, a nonprofit that rated Democrat Jon Rosenthal above Republican Bo French in its assessment of candidates ahead of the November 3, 2026 election. The statewide race will determine a seat on the regulator that oversees Texas oil and gas.

Key Takeaways

  • Builders Bloc gave Rosenthal 70 out of 100 and French 18 in its candidate index.
  • The commission also oversees pipeline safety and natural gas utilities.
  • An October University of Houston Hobby School poll put French at 45% and Rosenthal at 43%.

Why the Texas Railroad Commission race matters

Commissioners are elected statewide to six-year terms. The agency oversees the oil and gas industry in a state that produces about 42% of US crude oil, as well as pipeline safety and natural gas utilities.

Its decisions can also affect household bills. Following Winter Storm Uri, the commission approved $3.4 billion in bonds to be paid through the gas bills of more than 4.2 million customers. Its weatherization rules also govern preparations for severe cold.

How the candidates were assessed

Builders Bloc said it used an AI model to assess public records, including legislative histories, campaign websites, social media, news coverage and ethics and campaign finance filings. It said the model was instructed not to consider party affiliation.

The organization classified candidates scoring at least 70 as “Builders” and those scoring 49 or less as “Dividers.” It said the 52-point difference between Rosenthal and French was the largest in any Texas race it scored. The ratings reflect the nonprofit's own assessment, rather than election results.

Next milestone

The statewide election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.

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