Buddy is a multi-generational Texan & Brownsville Texas native with over 22 years experience working for Texas government in both the legislative & executive branches. He served as Legislative Director to Senator Eddie Lucio Jr., Policy Advisor to TX Governor Rick Perry, TX Deputy Secretary of State, TCEQ Commissioner (two years as Chairman), and TX Railroad Commissioner. He has been working as a government consultant since 2013. Areas of expertise include regulatory policy, environmental sustainability, energy production, surface and groundwater policy, and Gulf coast resilience. Buddy is the proud recipient of the Mexico Secretary of External Relations Ohtli award, Harte Research Institute’s Gulf of Mexico “Making a Difference” award, & Texas State University’s Distinguished Alumni Achievement award. Garcia served on the Border Security Council, Gulf of Mexico Program Policy Review Board, & served as co-chair for the Blue Ribbon Resilient Communities, an initiative of the America’s Wetland Foundation. Garcia graduated from St Joseph Academy in Brownsville, and Southwest Texas State University (now TX State University). He & his wife live in Austin and have two sons. In his spare time, Garcia enjoys grilling, gardening, professional/college sports, following current events in government, spending time outdoors with his family, and playing golf-especially with his two sons. Buddy also currently serves as a Board member of the Texas Water Foundation.