Texas Lottery Chief Resigns

April 22, 2025 – Ryan Mindell has resigned as Executive Director of the Texas Lottery Commission, marking a dramatic and unexpected development in a growing controversy surrounding the agency. His resignation comes amid heightened scrutiny from both lawmakers and the media, following months of speculation and investigation. Just weeks earlier, Mindell narrowly avoided termination when the Lottery Commission opted not to fire him in early March. However, his position became increasingly untenable after a damning exposé by The New York Times was published, highlighting the commission’s role in the alleged rigging of a $95 million jackpot in April 2023.

The report accuses commission staff of enabling a select group of players — including some from out of state and even foreign entities — to gain unfair advantage by purchasing nearly all possible number combinations, effectively guaranteeing a win. These revelations have sparked widespread concern about the integrity and transparency of the Texas Lottery system, which plays a significant role in funding education and public services in the state.

The fallout has been swift. In addition to Mindell’s departure, the Texas House of Representatives has proposed eliminating funding for the Texas Lottery entirely in its version of the state’s upcoming biennial budget. This unprecedented move signals a deep loss of trust in the agency and raises questions about the future of state-run gambling in Texas.

Mindell has yet to issue a public statement regarding his resignation or the allegations raised in the Times article. As investigations continue, lawmakers and watchdog groups are calling for further reforms and possible criminal inquiries to address what many see as systemic failures in oversight and accountability within the commission.