Former Texas Republican Congressman Blake Farenthold passed away at the age of 63. His death was confirmed by his wife, Debbie Farenthold, and his former political consultant, Steve Ray, attributed the cause to heart and liver problems he’d experienced in recent years.
Farenthold’s tenure in Congress, from 2010 to 2018, was marked by controversy. He resigned amidst allegations of sexual harassment from a former aide, accusations he denied in a video statement released at the time. In the video, he apologized for creating a less-than-professional work environment, citing “destructive gossip, offhand comments, off-color jokes, and behavior that in general was less than professional.” He ultimately chose not to seek re-election, stating that remaining in Congress would have meant months spent defending himself against the accusations.
Despite the controversy, Ray described Farenthold as a dedicated congressman who genuinely cared about his constituents. He highlighted Farenthold’s commitment to fighting crime and promoting transparency. Ray also shared insights into Farenthold’s life outside of politics, portraying him as a tech enthusiast with an interest in the internet and technology even before his political career.
Before entering the political arena, Farenthold worked as a sidekick for a conservative radio talk show host. His unexpected victory in the 2010 election against long-serving Democrat Solomon Ortiz surprised many. After leaving Congress, Farenthold launched his own radio show, a venture he continued until his death.
Farenthold is survived by his wife and two adult daughters, Morgan Baucum and Amanda Lawrence. His legacy remains complex, a mixture of political achievements and a controversial end to his time in public service. His passing leaves behind a mixed legacy, one that will undoubtedly continue to be discussed and debated.
