Former Texas Agriculture Commissioner and longtime populist advocate Jim Hightower delivered a fiery message to Democrats gathered at the Texas Democratic Convention this weekend, urging Texans to push back against what he described as the growing influence of billionaire interests and corporate greed.
Speaking at the convention in Corpus Christi, Hightower voiced support for the Big Bend region and the communities that call it home, framing the fight as part of a broader struggle between ordinary Texans and powerful economic interests.
“I’m right here at the Texas Democratic Convention in Corpus Christi to help people rally for Big Bend and rally for common sense against the greed of the billionaire class,” Hightower said.
Hightower remains one of Texas Democrats’ most recognizable voices. A native of Denison, he served as Texas Agriculture Commissioner from 1983 to 1991 and became nationally known for championing small farmers, rural communities, consumer protections, and populist economic policies. Since leaving office, he has worked as an author, columnist, radio commentator, and progressive political activist.
The Texas Democratic Convention brought together thousands of delegates, activists, candidates, and elected officials from across the state as Democrats prepare for the 2026 election cycle. The gathering featured speeches from state and national Democratic leaders and focused heavily on economic inequality, voting rights, public education, and organizing efforts across Texas.
For advocates of the Big Bend region, Hightower’s appearance highlighted growing attention on West Texas issues, including public lands, conservation, rural economic development, and efforts to ensure local communities have a voice in decisions affecting the region.
His message echoed a theme that has defined much of his political career: that government should work for everyday people rather than powerful corporate interests.
“We need common sense,” Hightower told supporters, arguing that Texans are increasingly frustrated by policies that benefit the wealthy while leaving working families and rural communities behind.
As Democrats gathered on the Gulf Coast, Hightower’s remarks served as a reminder that, even decades after leaving elected office, the former agriculture commissioner remains one of Texas’ most outspoken champions of populist politics and grassroots organizing.
