As president of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association, I am often reminded of a quote frequently attributed to Mark Twain, the celebrated author of “Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”:
“There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies and statistics.”
Whether Twain actually coined the phrase or not, its message has endured because it captures an important truth: Statistics can be used to persuade, mislead or strengthen an argument.
In public policy, particularly in Austin and Washington, D.C., we often hear this sentiment. Numbers are regularly used to frame debates, justify decisions and shape public opinion. When facts are accurate and grounded in reality, they become one of the most powerful tools we have to tell our story.
That is especially true for Texas franchised automobile dealers.
At TADA, we recently presented our 2025 Texas Economic Impact Report to the Board of Directors, and the findings clearly demonstrate the extraordinary role franchised new car and truck dealerships play in the Texas economy. I encourage each of you to take a few moments to review the report included at the back of this issue and reflect on the remarkable impact our industry has — not only statewide, but in every community we serve.
Texas franchised dealers are a driving force behind our state’s economic strength. Together, you support hundreds of thousands of jobs for Texans and their families, generate billions of dollars in state and local tax revenue and make significant investments in charitable organizations at the local, state and national levels. Your dealerships are not simply places of business — they are pillars of your communities.
These facts matter.
They matter because they help policymakers understand that the franchise system is not just a business model; it is a proven structure that protects consumers, creates competition and ensures local accountability. They matter because elected officials need to understand the real-world consequences of policy decisions that affect our industry.
That is why I am asking each of you to help educate your local elected officials about the importance of preserving a strong and fair franchise system in Texas. In this political environment, both sides share a lot of “statistics,” so it is important for legislators to hear from their local businessmen and businesswomen to get the straight facts.
Use the information in the report, along with your own personal story, to strengthen relationships with your statewide elected officials. Focus on your Congressional Representative, State Senator and State Representatives. Most of them do not work in the automotive business, but each of them knows a local dealer in their community. Your voice and your leadership carry tremendous influence, and you can be a trusted resource to that official when issues get complicated.
If you are unsure who represents you, I encourage you to call me or use the “Who Represents Me” search tool at wrm.capitol.texas.gov to identify your state and federal elected officials and begin or deepen these important bonds.
TADA is already working closely with dealers to prepare legislation for the 90th Texas Legislature, scheduled to convene in January 2027. One of our top priorities is ensuring that dealers are fairly compensated by manufacturers for warranty and recall work performed on behalf of consumers. This is a consumer protection issue of fairness, sustainability and long-term business viability.
We are also already talking to legislators and state leadership about this important issue, but we will need your engagement and your voice to succeed.
TADA is strong, engaged and well-positioned for the challenging work ahead. With continued participation from our members and leadership, I am confident we can achieve meaningful progress in 2027 and continue protecting the franchise system that serves both dealers and Texas drivers so well.
Thank you for your commitment to TADA, your communities and the vital role you play in keeping Texas moving.
