Former Railroad Commissioner Lena Guerrero died today. She had battled cancer for many years. She was the first woman on the Texas Railroad Commission, serving from 1991-1992. Prior to that, she served in the Texas House of Representatives (1985-1991). Gov. Rick Perry has ordered flags at half-mast and issued the following statement: “Lena Guerrero was a bright, passionate woman who worked hard to represent the interests of her constituents both as a representative and as Railroad Commissioner. We served together in the Texas House of Representatives, and I came to know and admire her both as an esteemed colleague and a friend. Her fellow Democrats were surprised at our friendship and her endorsement of my candidacy, but she was the sort of person who placed loyalty and principle ahead of politics. Our state is a better place for her time spent in it and she will be greatly missed. Anita and I extend our deepest sympathies and prayers to her family during this time of great loss.”
Sen. Leticia Van de Putte (D-San Antonio) issued the following statement: "As the first Hispanic and first woman on the Texas Railroad Commission, Lena Guerrero was a trailblazer. She was a personal mentor to me, and remains an inspiration to Latinos and women alike. We are fortunate for her many contributions to our great state. She has left an indelible mark on the Texas political landscape; and I will always hold dear my memories of her."
