A Democratic candidate in Texas has been arrested for allegedly fabricating racist messages directed at himself. Taral Patel, the Democratic nominee for Commissioner of Fort Bend Precinct 3, was charged with Online Impersonation and Misrepresentation of Identity. Texas Rangers arrested Patel after an investigation revealed that he had created fake social media accounts to send himself hateful messages, which he then used as part of his campaign strategy.
American Greatness reports that the investigation began in October 2023, following a request from incumbent Commissioner Andy Meyers (R-TX), who noticed that the comments seemed to come from his supporters. Patel used screenshots of these messages to claim that there was a “deep and misguided fear” among Republican supporters, bolstering his campaign narrative.
In a September 2023 Facebook post, Patel stated, “As your Democratic candidate for County Commissioner, I am always open to criticism of my policy positions and stances on issues. However, when my Republican opponents’ supporters decide to hurl racist, anti-immigrant, Hinduphobic, or otherwise disgusting insults at my family, faith community, colleagues, and me – that crosses a line.”
Additionally, authorities discovered that Patel used an image of a real Fort Bend resident in one of the fake profiles without their consent. This misuse of identity has further compounded his legal troubles.
Fort Bend County GOP Chairman Bobby Eberle condemned Patel’s actions, calling them “deeply concerning.” Eberle emphasized that such tactics undermine trust in the political process, stating, “Whether Republican or Democrat, such tactics should be unequivocally condemned by all who value integrity and accountability in politics.”
Eberle continued, “Fort Bend County residents deserve better leadership than someone who will create a fake account and post manufactured racist attacks — attempting to turn neighbor against neighbor — for political gain.”
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the ethics and integrity of political campaigning, highlighting the need for honesty and accountability in the electoral process.
