Randal Tye Thomas, American journalist and politician (b. 1978)

Randal Tye Thomas (August 23, 1978 – January 13, 2014) was a notable figure in Texas politics, remembered for his commitment to civic service and his unique participation in a pivotal moment of American democracy. His career was marked by two significant roles: serving as the Mayor of Gun Barrel City, Texas, and as a key member of the Electoral College during the highly contested 2000 U.S. Presidential Election.

Mayor of Gun Barrel City, Texas

As the Mayor of Gun Barrel City, Randal Tye Thomas led this vibrant community located in Henderson County, Texas, on the shores of Cedar Creek Lake. Gun Barrel City, known for its motto "A Little Bit of Paradise," is a close-knit community where local leadership plays a crucial role in daily governance, public services, and future development. While the specific dates of his mayoral tenure are not detailed, his service as mayor involved responsibilities common to municipal leadership, such as overseeing city administration, engaging with local residents, and making decisions vital to the town's prosperity and quality of life. Mayors in smaller cities often serve as direct liaisons between the populace and the local government, addressing concerns ranging from infrastructure improvements to community safety initiatives.

Electoral College Member in the 2000 Presidential Election

Beyond his local leadership, Randal Tye Thomas gained national recognition through his involvement in the 2000 Presidential Election as a member of the Electoral College. This election, famously contested between Republican George W. Bush and Democrat Al Gore, was one of the closest and most controversial in U.S. history, hinging on a disputed recount in Florida. The Electoral College is a body of electors established by the U.S. Constitution, formed every four years for the sole purpose of electing the President and Vice President of the United States. Each state is allocated a number of electors equal to its total number of senators (always two) and representatives in Congress. When citizens vote in a presidential election, they are technically voting for a slate of electors pledged to a particular candidate. As an elector for Texas, a state that ultimately cast its electoral votes for George W. Bush, Randal Tye Thomas played a direct, constitutionally mandated role in the formal selection of the nation's highest office. His participation underscored the significance of the Electoral College process, particularly during an election where every single electoral vote was meticulously scrutinized.

A Legacy of Public Service

Randal Tye Thomas's life, though cut short, demonstrated a profound dedication to public service at both local and national levels. His contributions, from guiding his home city to participating in a landmark presidential election, highlight a life committed to the democratic process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Randal Tye Thomas

Who was Randal Tye Thomas?
Randal Tye Thomas (August 23, 1978 – January 13, 2014) was an American civic leader who served as the Mayor of Gun Barrel City, Texas, and was notably a member of the Electoral College for the 2000 U.S. Presidential Election.
What was Randal Tye Thomas's role in the 2000 Presidential Election?
He served as a member of the Electoral College. In this capacity, he was one of the electors from Texas who formally cast votes for President and Vice President, a particularly significant role given the highly contested nature of the Bush vs. Gore election that year.
What is Gun Barrel City, Texas?
Gun Barrel City is a city located in Henderson County, Texas, situated on the eastern shore of Cedar Creek Lake. It is known as a community where local governance plays a vital role in its residents' lives.
What is the Electoral College?
The Electoral College is a constitutionally mandated process in the United States where electors, chosen by each state based on their popular vote, formally cast votes for the President and Vice President. It's the mechanism by which the U.S. President is ultimately elected, not by direct national popular vote.