Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Elects New President

Fifth-generation rancher Stephen Diebel takes the helm of the oldest and largest livestock association in the Southwest.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:00pm

A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a polished, geometric metal cattle brand, a leather ranching glove, and a weathered leather journal, symbolizing the tradition, craftsmanship, and stewardship of the cattle ranching industry.The election of a new TSCRA president signals the association's commitment to preserving the legacy and values of the cattle ranching industry.Victoria Today

The Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) has elected Stephen Diebel, a fifth-generation rancher from Victoria, Texas, as its new president during the 2026 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. Diebel succeeds Carl Ray Polk Jr. and will serve a two-year term leading the oldest and largest livestock association in the Southwest.

Why it matters

TSCRA plays a crucial role in advocating for the interests of cattle ranchers and the broader livestock industry across Texas and the Southwest. Diebel's election as president signals continuity in the association's leadership and its ongoing efforts to support its members and the regional cattle industry.

The details

As president, Diebel will guide TSCRA's mission and priorities, building on the work of his predecessor. The association also elected new members to its board of directors and executive committee, as well as appointed chairs and vice chairs for its various policy committees.

  • Diebel was elected as TSCRA president during the 2026 Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo over the weekend.
  • Diebel succeeds Carl Ray Polk Jr., whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in driving TSCRA's mission the last two years.

The players

Stephen Diebel

A fifth-generation rancher and co-owner and manager of Diebel Cattle Company in Victoria, Texas, who was elected as the new president of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association.

Carl Ray Polk Jr.

The outgoing president of the Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, whose leadership and dedication have been instrumental in driving the association's mission over the last two years.

Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

The oldest and largest livestock association in the Southwest, representing cattle ranchers and the broader livestock industry across Texas and the region.

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What they’re saying

“I'm honored to serve our membership alongside other great association leaders who share the same passion and drive, ensuring our way of life is here for generations to come.”

— Stephen Diebel, President, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

“On behalf of the association, we extended our appreciation to Carl Ray for his invaluable contribution and care for every member we represent across Texas and the Southwest.”

— Stephen Diebel, President, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association

The takeaway

Diebel's election as TSCRA president ensures continuity in the association's leadership and its ongoing efforts to advocate for the interests of cattle ranchers and the broader livestock industry across Texas and the Southwest.