HOUSTON – The Houston Controller’s Office says it is reviewing complaints surrounding a reported $60,000 “taxpayer-funded podcast” connected to Mayor John Whitmire.
In a statement released on X, the office said it takes the allegations seriously and will evaluate the concerns once it receives the contract tied to the project.
Officials say they have not yet been provided with the contract. Once it is received, the controller’s office plans to review documents, interview relevant individuals, and share conclusions based on the evidence.
The podcast, titled “901 Bagby: Inside the Mayor’s Office,” launched in March and features the mayor discussing city issues and hosting guests.
According to the city, the podcast is intended to serve as another communication channel, similar to social media and press releases, to keep the public informed and engaged.
City officials also say the procurement process followed existing ordinances and guidelines, and that the podcast does not qualify as campaign communication.
Here are the facts about the City’s podcast.
901 Bagby: Inside The Mayor’s Office is another communications channel the City is utilizing to keep the public informed and engaged. It serves the same purpose as social media, press releases, and other public forms of…
— City of Houston (@HoustonTX) April 28, 2026
They note the Texas Ethics Commission defines campaign communications as “express advocacy,” and say the podcast does not promote candidates or measures.
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