A Texas political candidate has been arrested on charges of fabricating hate messages aimed at himself.
Authorities allege that Taral Patel, the Democratic candidate for Fort Bend Precinct 3 Commissioner, sent racially-charged and derogatory comments to his own social media accounts over several months while impersonating a supporter of incumbent Republican Commissioner Andy Meyers.
Patel had publicized the messages as evidence of “misguided fear” among Republicans.
“As your Democratic candidate for County Commissioner, I am always open to criticism of my policy positions and stances on issues,” Patel wrote. “However, when my Republican opponents supporters’ decide to hurl racist, anti-immigrant, Hinduphobic, or otherwise disgusting insults at my family, faith community, colleagues, and me – that crosses a line.”
However, an investigation found Patel responsible for the comments.
He also allegedly used another person’s image without consent in the fake account.
The local GOP chairman condemned such tactics as undermining integrity in politics, saying residents deserve leadership that does not try to incite divisions for political gain through manufactured attacks.
“Whether Republican or Democrat, such tactics should be unequivocally condemned by all who value integrity and accountability in politics,” Fort Bend County Republican Party Chairman Bobby Eberle said. “This is not a partisan issue, and the good people of Fort Bend County should be able to trust that when allegations are made, they are sincere.”
He added, “Fort Bend County residents deserve better leadership than someone who will create a fake account and post manufactured racist attacks — attempting to turn neighbor against neighbor — for political gain.”
