Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
For more than four decades, Texas Border Business (TBB) has served as a trusted voice for South Texas, chronicling the leaders, policies, and economic forces shaping the region’s future. From state fiscal leadership to cross-border trade and infrastructure, TBB has consistently documented moments that define the Texas–Mexico border economy and the people guiding it.
That legacy reaches back to the era of Bob Bullock, whose tenure as Texas Comptroller marked a period of sweeping modernization and fiscal reform. Bullock transformed the Comptroller’s Office into a cornerstone of accountability and transparency, strengthening revenue collection and providing lawmakers with more accurate economic forecasting. His leadership professionalized state financial management and laid the foundation for decades of economic growth. Bullock later served as Lieutenant Governor, becoming one of the most influential figures in Texas political history.
The tradition continued under John Sharp, who guided the office through a period of economic transition and expansion. Sharp emphasized efficiency, fiscal responsibility, and performance-based budgeting while supporting policies that encouraged growth and investment. His tenure coincided with Texas’ rise as a national economic powerhouse, with increasing attention to infrastructure and international trade—issues central to South Texas and frequently covered by TBB.
In 1999, leadership passed to Carole Keeton Strayhorn, the first woman elected Texas Comptroller. Known for her independent voice and fiscal watchdog approach, Strayhorn focused on taxpayer advocacy, government transparency, and responsible spending. Her tenure reinforced the Comptroller’s role as both a financial steward and a public accountability office, further shaping statewide conversations on budget discipline and economic oversight.
She was followed by Susan Combs, whose service spanned the Great Recession and its aftermath. Combs emphasized fiscal stability during challenging economic times, overseeing revenue forecasting and tax administration as Texas weathered national economic uncertainty. Her leadership highlighted the importance of prudent budgeting and long-term planning to sustain growth, particularly in regions driven by trade, energy, and logistics.
Beginning in 2015, Glenn Hegar brought a data-driven and technology-focused approach to the Comptroller’s Office. Under Hegar, the office expanded digital transparency, modernized financial systems, and provided detailed economic reporting to guide policymakers and the public alike. His tenure reflected Texas’ continued economic expansion and the increasing importance of global trade corridors—especially those running through South Texas.
That history came full circle recently when Texas Border Business covered the visit of Kelly Hancock, Acting Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts since July 1, 2025, to Pharr. A former state senator with deep experience in fiscal policy and government operations, Hancock represents the current generation of state leadership overseeing one of the nation’s largest economies.
The City of Pharr welcomed Hancock as state and local leaders gathered to highlight the critical role the Pharr International Bridge and regional infrastructure play in Texas’ economy, international trade, and job creation.
As it has done for more than 40 years, Texas Border Business continues to connect the past with the present—documenting leadership, amplifying regional voices, and telling the story of South Texas as it unfolds at the intersection of commerce, policy, and opportunity.
Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez was present during Hancock’s reception, after which the Comptroller toured the expansion of the Pharr International Bridge alongside Luis Bazan, Director of the Bridge. The visit underscored the Comptroller’s role not only in managing state finances, but also in understanding the on-the-ground economic drivers that sustain Texas’ competitiveness.
A Timeline of Fiscal Leadership
1975–1991
Bob Bullock
Modernized the Comptroller’s Office, strengthened revenue collection, and elevated fiscal transparency. Later became one of the most powerful Lieutenant Governors in Texas history.
1991–1999
John Sharp
Focused on efficiency and performance-based budgeting during a period of economic growth and transition. Helped position Texas as a national economic leader.
1999–2007
Carole Keeton Strayhorn
First woman elected Texas Comptroller. Known for her independent watchdog approach emphasizing taxpayer advocacy and government accountability.
2007–2015
Susan Combs
Led the office through the Great Recession, prioritizing fiscal stability, conservative revenue estimates, and long-term budget planning.
2015–2025
Glenn Hegar
Expanded digital transparency, modernized financial systems, and enhanced economic reporting as Texas experienced sustained growth and global trade expansion.
2025–Present
Kelly Hancock
Serving as Acting Comptroller since July 1, 2025. Brings legislative experience and a focus on infrastructure, trade corridors, and statewide economic competitiveness.
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