Texas Senator Calls for Harris County Judge's Resignation After Rodeo Incident

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Texas Senator Paul Bettencourt is calling for the resignation of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo following an incident at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo in which Hidalgo was escorted off the premises. Bettencourt posted on social media that Hidalgo's behavior was "bizarre" and that she lacks the judgment needed as head of the county's Office of Emergency Management. Hidalgo was denied access to the rodeo's chute area, leading to a confrontation with security. The rodeo has since revoked Hidalgo's Ex-Officio Director status and privileges.

Why it matters

The incident raises questions about Hidalgo's leadership and judgment, particularly in her role overseeing the county's emergency management. Bettencourt's call for her resignation could further strain the political tensions between the Republican state senator and the Democratic county judge.

The details

On Tuesday night, Hidalgo was escorted out of NRG Stadium during a sold-out Megan Moroney concert after reportedly refusing to leave the chute area, which was sold out. Hidalgo claims she was shoved and manhandled by rodeo officials and security, but the rodeo denies this. Rodeo officials say they had told Hidalgo that she would not be allowed in the chute section, as passes for her and her guests were in the suite area. After a back-and-forth, Hidalgo was ultimately escorted out of the building.

• On Tuesday night, Hidalgo was escorted out of NRG Stadium during a sold-out Megan Moroney concert.
• On Thursday, Bettencourt posted to X calling Hidalgo's behavior "bizarre" and calling for her resignation.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.