The following are the complete and unedited responses submitted by the candidate listed below to the Amarillo Pioneer’s Candidate Questionnaire.
Wright/Photo via campaign
Name: Jim Wright
Office Sought: Railroad Commissioner
Party Affiliation: Republican
Age: 63
What is your educational background? Please list any degrees or certificates earned and any institutions attended.
Calallen High School
What is your occupation?
Rancher and oilfield entrepreneur
Please list any civic boards or commissions (non-profit, government, union, religious, political, etc.) on which you have served as a board member or equivalent.
Wesley Community Center, Member
CASA of the Coastal Bend, Board Member
Robstown Area Development Corporation, Board Member,
Have you previously held or do you currently hold any elected office? If so, what office(s)?
Yes; Railroad Commissioner
If your campaign has any online campaign resources where voters can learn more about you, such as social media accounts or a website, please list them below.
Campaign website: http://www.wrightfortexas.com
Campaign Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimWrightForTexas/
Campaign X: https://x.com/JimWright4Texas
Why did you decide to run for this office in 2026?
I am running to keep Texas Energy on Track. Texas energy production is a cornerstone of our state’s economy and is responsible for 43% of US Oil Production, 29% of U.S. Natural gas production, and is home to 1/3 of US refining capacity. Without Texas, the concept of U.S. Energy Independence would be nothing more than a pipe dream.
I am not a career politician and have no desire to seek any other political office. My focus has and will continue to be ensuring the Texas energy sector remains the envy of the world. As a small business owner, I felt that the Railroad Commission needed someone with boots-on-the-ground experience who understands how policy choices impact everyone in our state, from energy producers to employees, landowners to the general public.
If elected, what will be your top three priorities in office?
My top three, among many, priorities will be as follows:
Protecting Texas Energy: I am focused on what matters most—strong oil and gas production, fair and consistent regulation, and protecting the land, water, and people of Texas.
Cutting Red Tape and Getting Projects Built: From pipelines to LNG terminals, I believe the path to energy security runs through Texas. That’s why I'm pushing back on unnecessary federal delays and working to speed up permitting at the state level.
Defending Landowners and Surface Rights: As a fifth-generation Texas rancher, I know firsthand the importance of protecting private property. I bring that mindset to my role as Commissioner—ensuring that landowners are respected and that operators follow the rules.
What is an issue you believe has gone overlooked in your race and how will you address it if elected?
Texas is the energy capital of the world—and that includes emerging technologies. That is why I am an advocate for promoting innovation the right way. Whether it’s geothermal, carbon capture, or hydrogen, I support innovation that builds on the strengths of our workforce and infrastructure. But I also believes new tech should meet the same high standards as traditional energy. That’s why I'm leading efforts to develop responsible regulations that protect landowners, groundwater, and community safety while encouraging investment and long-term opportunity.
Do you have any notable endorsements you would like to highlight for voters? If this question is not applicable, please write N/A.
Governor Greg Abbott, Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, TXOGA PAC, Texas Chemistry Council PAC, Texas Pipeline Association, Texas Association of Manufacturers, Texas Alliance for Life, Grassroots America
Why are you the best candidate for voters to support for this position?
With decades of experience in the oilfield and business world, I bring a hands-on, practical perspective to regulation. I know how policies affect real people, not just on paper, but in the field. That allows me to make sure the Railroad Commission stays focused on doing what it was always meant to do: keep Texas energy strong, safe, and independent. It is an honor to serve as the Chairman of the Texas Railroad Commission, and I am looking forward to building on all of our hard work to power Texas for the next generation.