Texas GOP candidate criticized for remarks on people of color in UT football crowd

A Texas state representative, Matt Schaefer, filed a formal complaint after a video circulated showing the crowd at the University of Texas‑Austin’s recent football game, alleging that the footage featured an “excessive” number of people of color. Schaefer’s filing with the state ethics board contended that the visual composition of the stadium audience violated the university’s nondiscrimination policies and called for an investigation into the university’s ticketing and promotional practices. The video, posted on social media by a fan account, captured a segment of the stadium during a halftime performance and was not part of any official university broadcast.

The complaint prompted swift condemnation from university officials, civil‑rights groups, and several members of the Texas legislature, who described the allegation as a racially charged attack on the diversity of the fan base. UT‑Austin President Jay Hartke reiterated the institution’s commitment to an inclusive environment and noted that ticket sales are open to all fans regardless of race. The Texas Attorney General’s office declined to pursue the matter, and the state ethics board has not yet scheduled a hearing. The incident underscores ongoing tensions over race and representation in collegiate athletics, while university leaders emphasize that the crowd’s composition reflects the broader demographic makeup of the state’s supporters.