I lived in Houston metro from 2004-2019. I now live in Amarillo.

Reading this thread, I am pretty surprised at the emphasis of the politics of people's neighbors as opposed to how vibrant the pinball scenes are in multiple locations in the state. Having participated in the growth of the pin-community in Houston, I would say there was a very, very broad range of political personalities. Guess what? It didn't matter at all. We all got along and the mantra still stands, "But did you have a good time?" I have been gone 9 months and miss the living hell out of the PEOPLE, several of whom were absolutely on the opposite end of the political spectrum from myself. I honestly cannot remember a fight/ argument about politics within our pin-family. Obviously there are differences, but folks are also respectful too.

Granted, the politics of a given community matter with regard to taxes, schools, and so-forth. You gotta live there too, right? I get that. Shop around and you'll find the right landing spot for you. Texas is tremendously diverse, as opposed to the stereotypes of everyone being cowboys or rednecks. That pays off in spades in eating establishments, music, the arts, and entertainment. We are genuinely friendly, unless you prefer to pull the raging A-hole from up north routine, and we have a consistent response to that too, LOL; as do most places.

It's been my experience, that should you present yourself as a decent human being, solicit people's feedback according to your preferences, and crack a smile every now and then; you'll get some solid counsel. Good luck!!!

That's too bad. That wasn't my experience. Ever.
Sucks if that's how it might be now. The fun and comradery always trumped that crap.