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Millions Invested in Reelection Campaign for Texas Oil and Gas Regulator

Christi Craddick, Texas Railroad Commissioner, raised $10M from oil execs, overshadowing opponents' $30K total funds.
The race for the open seat of the Railroad Commission of Texas includes (from left) Republican incumbent Christi Craddick, Democrat Katherine Culbert, Libertarian Hawk Dunlap and Eddie Espinoza of the Green Party.

Campaign contributions to Texas Railroad Commission incumbent Christi Craddick feature prominent fossil fuel billionaires like West Texas oilman Tim Dunn, Energy Transfer CEO Kelcy Warren, and the late Endeavor Energy founder Autry Stephens.

Since 2019, Craddick, a Midland Republican running for her third term, has raised over $10 million, according to the Texas Ethics Commission. In contrast, her three opponents have collectively raised less than $30,000. Craddick’s challengers—Democrat Katherine Culbert, Libertarian Hawk Dunlap, and Green Party’s Eddie Espinoza—entered early voting on Monday.

The election outcome will impact Texas environmental and climate policies for years. The Railroad Commission’s three elected officials manage funds for plugging orphan wells and vote on permits for methane flaring and injection wells. Craddick and fellow commissioners Wayne Christian and Jim Wright have consistently opposed the Biden administration’s environmental policies.

Texas Republicans have maintained statewide control since 1994, yet oil and gas executives continue substantial campaign contributions. Craddick’s fundraising efforts have surpassed previous Railroad Commission campaigns, reports Open Secrets.

“Texas is the Wild West of money in politics,” stated Andrew Wheat of Texans for Public Justice, highlighting the lack of limits on contributions to legislative or executive candidates.

The Texas Railroad Commission, established in 1891, regulates oil and gas drilling, gas utilities, and pipeline safety. It no longer oversees railroads. The agency also manages geothermal energy and carbon capture sectors.

Texas is unique among the top oil-producing states for electing its oil and gas regulators. Others appoint them. Craddick, a University of Texas law graduate and daughter of longtime state representative Tom Craddick, has deep industry ties. A 2023 Texas Monthly investigation reported that the Craddicks earned $10 million from oil and gas rights in a year.

A report by Commission Shift pointed out conflicts of interest where Craddick voted on matters involving companies she has stakes in or receives donations from. It suggests clearer rules on disclosing business ties and recusal requirements.

Craddick’s fundraising includes a $273,975 donation from NGL Texas PAC, part of the $773,975 total from NGL entities. The Railroad Commission has issued numerous violation notices to NGL since 2019. Other major donors include Syed Javaid Anwar of Midland Energy, ex-Pioneer CEO Scott Sheffield, and Double Eagle owner Cody Campbell.

Craddick campaigns against “anti-oil protesters” and “overregulation” by the Biden administration. Her social media depicts environmental activists with dramatic flair, urging votes for “American Energy.”

On The Crude Life podcast, she stated, “We try not to overregulate. We try to work with companies.” Craddick has opposed the Inflation Reduction Act but utilized its funds for plugging orphan wells.

Opponents advocate for Commission reform, criticizing its name as misleading. Candidates like Democrat Culbert call for stronger pipeline safety measures, highlighting a fatal Energy Transfer pipeline fire near Houston. Energy Transfer executives, including CEO Warren, are notable Craddick donors.

Libertarian Dunlap, who switched from the Republican primary to the Libertarian ticket, focuses on pollution cleanup and opposes campaign funding, relying on TikTok for outreach. He proposes taxing wastewater injection to fund well plugging and emphasizes protecting groundwater.

Green Party’s Espinoza, a former teacher and Army veteran, urges immediate fossil fuel elimination to combat global warming. He advocates for a fracking ban.

Despite diverse backgrounds, these candidates agree on one point: “It’s time for Christi Craddick to go,” Dunlap said. The decision rests with Texas voters.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024