BALCONES HEIGHTS, Texas – Recently, the city of Balcones Heights has been in the spotlight due to a controversial remark made by Mayor Johnny Rodriguez Jr. during a staff meeting that took place on September 19, 2025. The mayor referenced a quote about rape while discussing the need to rebrand the city, which has sparked significant backlash and prompted a review of the incident.
Rodriguez’s comment, which he mistakenly attributed to the late Texas businessman T. Boone Pickens, was, “Like T. Boone Pickens said, ‘if you’re going to get raped, just lay down and enjoy it’ (laughs).” This inappropriate joke echoed a similar statement made by Clayton Williams during his 1990 gubernatorial campaign, where he infamously compared bad weather to rape. Williams faced intense criticism for his comments and ultimately lost the election to Ann Richards.
While Pickens, known for his business acumen, was once rumored to be interested in running for governor, he never entered the race. The mayor’s offhand remark has reignited discussions about how such comments can perpetuate harmful attitudes towards serious issues like sexual violence.
This isn’t the first time a public figure has made a problematic statement about rape. Legendary basketball coach Bobby Knight also faced backlash for a similar comment in 1988, which did not lead to any formal consequences at the time, despite causing national outrage.
Adding to the controversy surrounding Mayor Rodriguez, he was arrested last week and charged with misdemeanor assault related to an incident at a city council meeting on August 24. Rodriguez allegedly made unwanted physical contact with a former city councilman, Lamar Gillian, during the meeting. A recording of the encounter shows Gillian telling Rodriguez, “Don’t you touch me,” highlighting the tension and conflict during the session.
Currently, Rodriguez is out on bond and is scheduled to appear in court for his arraignment on September 29. The audio recording from the September 2025 meeting, which lasts nearly 56 minutes, reveals Rodriguez’s struggle to address the city’s financial challenges and improve Balcones Heights’ public image, all while switching between English and Spanish and using profanity.
As this situation continues to unfold, it raises important questions about the responsibilities of public officials and the impact of their words and actions on the communities they serve. It’s crucial to foster a dialogue that prioritizes respect and awareness around sensitive topics, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
