Guadalupe County Attorney to seek unexpired term on commission which regulates the oil and gas industry in TexasÂ
Texas Insider Report: YOAKUM Texas Surrounded by a large group of Republican leaders gathered here Guadalupe County Attorney Elizabeth Murray-Kolb formally kicked-off her Republican campaign for an unexpired term on the Texas Railroad Commission the state agency which regulates the important oil and gas industry. Kolb seeking her partys nomination in the May 29th Republican Primary officially filed her candidacy with Republican Party officials last Fridaythe last day of filing for the delayed May primary.
In making her announcement Kolb said that she would bring a unique conservative approach to the Railroad Commission that would focus on the needs and concerns of taxpayers and consumers.
Kolb who is completing her twelfth year as the Guadalupe County Attorney said that her experience as a prosecutor will be an important asset in her service on the commission.
The Texas Railroad Commission is charged with regulating the oil and gas industry in our state and protecting consumers. For almost twelve years I have worked tirelessly as County Attorney to protect not only the publics safety but also the public trust. I look forward to carrying that record of public leadership with me on the commission" said Kolb.
Kolb said that protecting the public trust meant operating the Railroad Commission in an open and transparent manner and by avoiding conflicts of interest. She said that campaign contributions from those engaged in the oil and gas industrythe very industry the Railroad Commission regulateshave helped create numerous conflicts of interest amongst commission members and that they must come to an end.
How can taxpayers and consumers know that Railroad Commissioners are representing their interests in matters that come before them involving companies whose executives political action committees and trade associations have given them thousands upon thousands of dollars in campaign contributions?" asked Kolb. She said the practice must end if the people of Texas are to regain trust in the Railroad Commission.
