A Legacy Spanning Politics, Radio, and Technology
Remembering Blake Farenthold, former U.S. Congressman and beloved radio host, who passed away at 63. Friends confirmed he died late on June 19 or early June 20, 2025. While the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed, those close to him believe underlying health issues may have played a role.
Farenthold leaves behind a unique and multifaceted legacy. Known for his sharp intellect and internet expertise, he was an early adopter of digital communication — long before it became mainstream in politics. His contributions ranged from influencing federal tech policy to connecting with everyday citizens on the airwaves of Corpus Christi.
From Web Pioneer to Washington Lawmaker
Blake Farenthold rose to national prominence when he was elected to represent Texas’ 27th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He held that position from 2011 until his resignation in 2018. But his reputation was already well established in South Texas before his time in Washington.
A former tech-savvy attorney and popular radio host, Farenthold became a recognizable figure in the community. Steve Ray, a political consultant who worked with Farenthold, recalled him as “a national leader on the internet even before he went to D.C.” This digital fluency allowed him to advocate for bills related to internet freedom, cybersecurity, and commerce during his tenure in Congress.
Farenthold also served on several key committees, including those focused on energy, commerce, and homeland security. While these efforts didn’t always generate headlines, Ray noted they played a critical role in improving lives over time.
A Hometown Advocate for the Coastal Bend
Locally, Farenthold’s impact was felt deeply in Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend region. “He came in with the knowledge of the Coastal Bend unlike what a lot of other people did,” Ray said. “He made use of that to do everything he could to improve the lives of people in this area.”
Farenthold’s political career reached a turning point when he defeated longtime incumbent Solomon Ortiz in 2010, a victory that many Republicans initially considered impossible. Nueces County Commissioner Mike Pusley reflected on that moment as transformative. “It set an important precedent here in our community,” he said, emphasizing that the seat has remained in Republican hands since Farenthold’s historic win.
Radio Roots and Public Engagement
Before and after his time in Congress, Farenthold maintained a strong media presence. He was a regular voice on KKTX 1360 A.M.’s “Lago in the Morning”, a local conservative talk show. It was there that many elected officials, including Pusley and others, first got to know him.
Farenthold brought an approachable and down-to-earth energy to the airwaves, even after stepping away from politics. Following the passing of host Jim Lago in 2023, Farenthold launched his own program, “Blake’s Morning Show,” which continued to focus on local issues and interviews with public figures.
A Tech Whiz with a Community Spirit
Remembering Blake Farenthold means recognizing that he was far more than just a politician or broadcaster. He was a rare combination of radio host, tech expert, and political leader — someone who bridged the gap between Washington policy and everyday community concerns. Rene Elizondo, a former Citgo Petroleum representative, called him “a great ally” for both industry and local causes. “It’s not very often you run across someone who is a radio show host, a computer whiz, and a former congressman — and he was very much down to earth,” Elizondo said.
Farenthold’s roots in public service ran deep. He was the step-grandson of Frances “Sissy” Farenthold, a progressive trailblazer who represented Nueces County in the Texas Legislature during the 1960s, further grounding his legacy in the fabric of South Texas politics.
A Complicated Exit and Continued Community Involvement
In 2018, Farenthold resigned from Congress following public criticism over the use of $84,000 in taxpayer funds to settle a sexual harassment lawsuit. Despite the controversy, he remained active in public affairs. He briefly served as legislative liaison for the Port of Port Lavaca-Point Comfort before leaving that role in 2019.
Even after leaving office, Farenthold continued advocating for the Coastal Bend through legislation, industry ties, and local media presence.
Final Thoughts
Remembering Blake Farenthold reminds us that his life defied easy categorization. He was a tech policy pioneer, Corpus Christi radio voice, and dedicated congressman representing South Texans in Washington, D.C. As the community mourns, many remember his sharp mind, humor, and unwavering dedication to his South Texas roots.