Texas Governor Candidate Warns of Potential Power Outages

Jenn Mack Raphoon urges Texans to prepare for possible grid strain this summer.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:22pm

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A serene, cinematic painting of a lone electrical substation in a quiet urban neighborhood, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a palpable sense of tension and uncertainty.As Texas grapples with power grid challenges, a sense of unease settles over the state's urban landscapes.Houston Today

Jenn Mack Raphoon, a candidate for Texas governor, has issued an urgent message to Texans, warning them to prepare for potential power outages this summer. Raphoon's warning comes as the state's electric grid operator, ERCOT, projects tightening reserve margins in the coming months.

Why it matters

Texas has faced a series of high-profile power grid failures in recent years, including the devastating winter storm in 2021 that left millions without electricity for days. Raphoon's message highlights the ongoing challenges the state faces in maintaining a reliable and resilient power system, which has become a key issue in the gubernatorial race.

The details

In her message, Raphoon urged Texans to take steps to prepare for potential outages, such as stocking up on emergency supplies and ensuring they have backup power sources. She also called on the state government to take immediate action to address the grid's vulnerabilities and ensure the reliability of the power system.

  • ERCOT has projected tightening reserve margins in the coming months.

The players

Jenn Mack Raphoon

A candidate for Texas governor who has issued an urgent message to Texans about potential power outages this summer.

ERCOT

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the state's electric grid operator, which has projected tightening reserve margins in the coming months.

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What they’re saying

“Texans must be prepared for the possibility of power outages this summer. I urge everyone to take steps to ensure their safety and the safety of their families.”

— Jenn Mack Raphoon, Texas Governor Candidate

What’s next

Raphoon has called on the state government to take immediate action to address the grid's vulnerabilities and ensure the reliability of the power system.

The takeaway

Raphoon's warning highlights the ongoing challenges Texas faces in maintaining a reliable and resilient power system, which has become a key issue in the gubernatorial race. Texans must be prepared for the possibility of power outages and the state government must take action to address the grid's vulnerabilities.