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Wayne Christian's Press Room

News Items - 2026

• RRC Hosts Canadian Delegation

  March 17, 2026
  

  Led by the Canadian Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, the delegation received a briefing on the RRC’s regulatory duties and learned about Texas’ global leadership in energy development.

  

  Canadian Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre (left) and Railroad Commission of Texas Chairman Jim Wright shake hands during a meeting at the RRC headquarters in Austin, March 17, 2026.

  “It was an honor to host Canadian Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre at the Railroad Commission of Texas,” said RRC Chairman Jim Wright. “As a native of the Canadian oil and gas producing province of Alberta, Leader Poilievre understands that energy security and common-sense regulatory policies serve as the foundation of a strong economy.”

  As the regulator of one of the most dynamic energy economies in the world, the RRC routinely hosts foreign delegations including representatives from Germany and Argentina last year. Also in 2025, Canadian financial leaders visited Austin where they learned about the Commission’s longstanding relationship with Canadian provinces, including collaboration through the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission.

  “The Railroad Commission of Texas has a long and storied history prioritizing common-sense, pro-growth energy policies and it was a pleasure to discuss the Commission’s outlook and approach with our northern neighbors,” he added.

  This visit is just the latest example of how the RRC remains at the forefront of the global conversation on energy production and regulation.

• Commissioner Wayne Christian Praises Record Port Activity, Rising Oil Production in Texas

  May 06, 2026
  

  AUSTIN – Texas oil and gas regulator Wayne Christian praised reports highlighting the state’s growing role in meeting global energy demand amid instability abroad. Last month, the Port of Corpus Christi reported its strongest first quarter on record. Meanwhile, Diamondback Energy announced this week that it is boosting exports and expanding drilling activity in response to Iran-related supply disruptions, both of which reflect shifting market conditions and the ongoing strength of Texas oil production.

  The following statement may be attributed to Texas oil and gas regulator Wayne Christian:

  “The conflict in Iran is a clear reminder of the world’s reliance on Texas oil and gas. When America and our allies need stability, Texas energy is answering the call. What we are seeing right now is no accident. It is the result of sustained investment in our drilling capacity and world-class export infrastructure. Simply put, Texas leads the free world in energy production because we have built the foundation to do so.

  As prices rise at the pump here at home and abroad, the path forward is clear: further unleash Texas energy. We need to lower taxes, cut regulations, and eliminate green energy subsidies because this surge in oil and gas production should not be short-lived. Texas should remain the cornerstone of global energy supply, delivering affordable, reliable energy to Americans and our allies around the world.”