Governor Greg Abbott appointed Patrick Rhode to the Public Utility Commission of Texas for a term ending on September 1, 2027, effective April 1, 2026. The commission oversees the state’s electric, water, wastewater, and telecommunications utility industries and is responsible for implementing related legislation and assisting customers with consumer complaints.
The appointment is significant as the Public Utility Commission plays a key role in regulating essential services that affect millions of Texans. The commission’s work impacts infrastructure reliability and consumer protection across the state.
Rhode is the Founder and President of Patrick Rhode Strategies. His previous experience includes serving as Special Assistant to the President of the United States, Senior Advisor to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, holding senior roles at the United States Department of Homeland Security after September 11, and working as Vice President at an international infrastructure company. He holds two Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Arkansas—one in Political Science from Fayetteville and another in Communications from Little Rock.
According to the official website, Governor Abbott’s office has contributed to Texas leading the nation in job growth and record employment levels. The governor’s primary offices are located in Austin at the State Insurance Building according to official information. Abbott was also recognized among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024 according to official records.
The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott focuses on job creation, economic opportunities, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and southern border security according to its official website. Since his election in 2014, Abbott has led statewide efforts through his office according to official sources, delivering services throughout Texas.
