July 23, 2026 8:34 AM

Acting Comptroller Hancock refutes accusations from Chairman Schwertner of favoritism at Broadband Development Office

“I do not believe Texans should act as a financial safety net for a multibillion-dollar corporation's liabilities,” Hancock said, speaking of Amazon. “Our decision to reject these unwarranted demands was ‘favoritism’ toward one group only – the citizens of Texas.”

Not holding back, Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock told Business and Commerce Chairman Charles Schwertner that he and members of his committee clearly don't understand how the process is supposed to work for awarding grants at the Broadband Development Office. He said that and much more in a letter to committee members obtained by Quorum Report:

"During the hearing, it became clear that certain committee members are unaware of these statutory constraints. Instead, it appears they have received talking points from industry lobbyists. Our office staunchly and without reservation prioritizes protecting taxpayer money over corporate bottom lines."