Jim Ross, the Democratic mayor of Arlington, Texas, is under fire after a video resurfaced showing him using vulgar and sexually explicit language toward Christian street preacher Ruben Israel during a 2018 LGBT event in New Orleans—before Ross became mayor.
The footage, recorded by Vice News and recently highlighted by The Dallas Express, depicts Ross confronting Israel at the Southern Decadence festival.
In the video, Ross can be heard saying, “I believe y’all can have free speech, but this is some hateful s***, and I am a heterosexual guy.”
He directed a series of crude insults at Israel, including offensive remarks about Israel’s wife.
Ross said, “You don’t think anal sex is good, do you? Have you ever fed your old lady in the a? I’d f** your old lady in the a**.”
He continued using profanities, calling Israel a “p**** motherf***er,” while Israel remained silent.
The resurfaced video triggered strong condemnation from local Republican officials.
Tarrant County GOP Chairman Bo French labeled Ross “a disgusting piece of human garbage” and demanded his immediate resignation.
Tarrant County Republican Precinct Chair TK Campbell called Ross’ behavior “vile” and “a disgrace,” suggesting his financial troubles may explain the conduct but emphasizing that “leadership demands better.”
Ross is also under scrutiny for significant financial problems. Reports indicate he owes nearly $175,000 in unpaid taxes from 2015 and 2019.
The IRS has begun garnishing his salary to recover the debt. According to June 2025 records from the Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector, Ross’ outstanding tax debt totals $174,945.93, with penalties and interest adding $940.39, Dallas Express reports.
Despite his financial challenges, Ross has maintained that his work as mayor remains unaffected.
A recent report from KERA News revealed Ross is on a payment plan with the IRS, and city officials have expressed mixed views on how his tax issues might impact his duties.
Community reaction to Ross’ vulgar tirade has been one of shock and disappointment.
Podcast host Kathi Arocha described the incident as “beyond shocking” and suggested Ross sounded inebriated during the confrontation.
Several Arlington and Tarrant County residents have voiced dismay over the mayor’s conduct during a public event.
Religious leaders also weighed in on Ross’s inappropriate behavior. Pastor Troy Jackson, Biblical Citizenship Pastor at New Beginnings Church in Bedford, Texas, urged civility from elected officials.
Jackson emphasized that even Ruben Israel “deserved dignity and respect from an elected representative.”
He cited Ephesians 4:29: “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying.”
Ruben Israel, the street preacher featured in the video, passed away in 2023. He was known for his outspoken presence at various events nationwide, often sparking strong reactions, The Western Journal reports.
Israel frequently used provocative language and large signs calling for repentance, openly expressing firm views on divisive issues such as Islam, sexuality and abortion, per The Christian Post.
Calls for Ross’ resignation have intensified in light of both the resurfaced video and his financial troubles. Local Republican leaders and residents alike have expressed frustration and urged accountability from the Arlington mayor.
WATCH:
