Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian praised the state’s energy sector on May 6. He pointed to a surge in oil production and record-breaking port activity as key buffers against global supply disruptions.
Christian said that as instability in the Middle East — specifically the war in Iran — pressures global oil supplies, Texas energy is increasingly “answering the call” for the nation’s allies.
The Commissioner’s remarks follow a record-breaking first quarter for the Port of Corpus Christi, which remains the nation’s primary hub for crude oil exports.
With tensions in the Strait of Hormuz creating a “supply vacuum” in international markets, Texas producers like Diamondback Energy have begun expanding drilling activity and export volumes to offset reduced Middle Eastern output.
According to the Railroad Commission, the current surge in output is the result of years of sustained investment in both drilling capacity and marine terminal infrastructure.
The Port of Corpus Christi reported its strongest first quarter on record in 2026, continuing an upward trajectory that has seen its daily crude exports grow 25-fold over the last decade.
Independent analysis from World Oil confirms that export volumes from the hub reached approximately 2.25 million barrels per day (MMb/d) by 2025, and current Q1 2026 data indicates that growth has persisted into the new year.
Commissioner Christian said that to maintain this momentum, policymakers should “further unleash Texas energy” by cutting regulations and eliminating green energy subsidies. He attributed the state’s leadership to a “foundation” of pro-growth policies.
“The conflict in Iran is a clear reminder of the world’s reliance on Texas oil and gas,” Christian said. “When America and our allies need stability, Texas energy is answering the call”.