Dear Friends, Supporters and Fellow Texans–
Last night, as I watched the primary results come in, I was shocked. I have to admit, I didn?t see it coming, and I am very disappointed. I have truly enjoyed serving you as your Texas Railroad Commissioner, and I was excited about the future. But this is how our election process works, and now someone else will be stepping in to represent the people of this state. While our process is not perfect, it is the finest system on earth, and I was blessed to have been a part of it for these six years. Using your expertise to serve those who are concerned or have a need is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have.
On an individual note, I am truly a blessed man. As many of you know, before I ran for office, I started an engineering and technology company focused on reliability and data analysis for big industries like wastewater treatment, chemicals, and oil and gas. The company has taken off, and even after I stepped away a few years ago to become railroad commissioner, it continued to expand. Last year, the CEO stepped down and left a leadership vacuum. After last night, I was able to let my former colleagues know that by the end of this year, I?LL BE BACK!!!
Many people have asked what happened in the election. Unfortunately, some extremely malicious and false information was fabricated and circulated right before early voting started two weeks ago. I thought that I could ignore it since it was so outrageous, and I was focusing heavily on the general election in November. But in a low-profile down ballot race like Railroad Commissioner, I should have been more focused, and responded with an aggressive campaign of my own. I got complacent, and lost. A good example of the Lord keeping me humble.
Back to public service. There are so many tremendous opportunities for us to move things forward, in everything from energy regulation to healthcare to education. And today, there is so much data available, that I am hoping to use my expertise in data analysis to develop new solutions. However, one thing I have learned is that while I am in politics, my ideas are often discounted or attacked just because I held public office. I am excited to see what I can do now that I will be a private citizen again soon. As one friend put it, ?Holy cow, Sitton? now you are unshackled.”
Be on the lookout for a couple of books that I have written. The first one is about leadership and purpose, the second one is about data analytics and human/machine performance. As fate would have it, I now have a bit more time to get them finished!
I cannot thank my friends, supporters and all Texans enough for allowing me to serve over the past five years. I have loved traveling around our state and talking with each of you about energy, leadership, and the values that make Texas exceptional. Your words, your questions, and your connection are what I’ll miss the most.
SIncerely,
Ryan