As president of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association, I am often reminded of a quote frequently attributed to Mark Twain, the celebrated author of “Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”: “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies and statistics.” Whether Twain actually coined the phrase or not, its message has endured because it captures an important truth: Statistics can be used to persuade, mislead or strengthen an argument. In public policy, particularly in Austin and Washington, D.C., we often hear this sentiment. Numbers are regularly used to frame debates, justify decisions and shape public opinion. When facts are accurate and grounded in reality, they become one of the most powerful tools we have to tell our story. That is especially true for Texas franchised automobile dealers. At TADA, we recently presented our 2025 Texas Economic Impact Report (see pg. 40) to the Board of Directors, and the findings clearly demonstrate the extraordinary role franchised new car and truck dealerships play in the Texas economy. I encourage each of you to take a few moments to review the report included at the back of this issue and reflect on the remarkable impact our industry has — not only statewide, but in every community we serve. Texas franchised dealers are a driving force behind our state’s economic strength. Together, you support hundreds of thousands of jobs for Texans and their families, generate billions of dollars in state and local tax revenue and make significant investments in charitable organizations at the local, state and national levels. Your dealerships are not simply places of business — they are pillars of your communities. These facts matter. They matter because they help policymakers understand that the franchise system is not just a business model; it is a proven structure that protects consumers, creates competition and ensures local accountability. They matter because elected officials need to understand the real-world consequences of policy decisions that affect our industry. That is why I am asking each of you to help educate your local elected officials about the importance of preserving a strong and fair franchise system in Texas. In this political environment, both sides share a lot of “statistics,” so it is important for legislators to hear from their local businessmen and businesswomen to get the straight facts. Use the information in the report, along with your own personal story, to strengthen relationships with your statewide elected officials. Focus on your Congressional Representative, State Senator and State Representatives. Most of them do not work in the automotive PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The Truth of Our IMPACT By DARREN WHITEHURST President, TADA DEALERS’ CHOICE 6
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