Texas Agriculture Commissioner issues statement applauding AG for Xcel Energy lawsuit

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller released a statement on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, applauding Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit against Xcel Energy related to the Smokehouse Creek Fire. Miller believes Paxton is advocating for Texas farmers and ranchers in the Panhandle, who suffered significant losses due to the wildfire. The lawsuit aims to recover economic damages, including property damage, loss of wildlife habitat, and civil penalties, citing Xcel Energy’s admission that its utility pole started the fire.

The Smokehouse Creek Fire, which occurred in February and March 2024, burned over a million acres, resulted in three fatalities, destroyed numerous homes, and led to the death of over 15,000 cattle, causing over $1 billion in economic loss. Commissioner Miller emphasized the devastating impact on Texas families, stating that they “lost livestock, land, livelihoods, and generations of heritage that can never be replaced.”

Miller expressed confidence in Paxton’s ability to secure full compensation for those affected and implement measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future, asserting that the lawsuit sends a message of support from the State of Texas to the people of the Panhandle.

(Source：Cbs Austin)