What induced nominating legendary cyclist as Texan of the Year?

The Dallas Morning News is a daily newspaper which is very popular in the USA. Certain persons whose actions have substantial influence on the society are chosen every year for the “Texan of the Year” award. It is important to notice that not only positive actions are taken in consideration. Even actions that have been influenced on the society negatively may promote receiving the “Texan of the Year” award. So, Lance Armstrong’s doping scandal made the cyclist the finalist for the “Texan of the Year” award.
As you understand, Lance Armstrong’s doping scandal is not pleasant. Although this case disgraced the legendary American cyclist, it made him more prominent. The scandal had great impact on the society. Many persons discussed the situation related to his usage of anabolic steroids, EPO and other doping products. Many persons focused on the following questions: “Have Lance Armstrong actually taken doping products?”, Why has he lied?”, Which medicines have been taken by him?”, How could he remain undetectable?”, etc.
The Dallas Morning News didn’t fail to present positive actions of Lance Armstrong as well. The newspaper noted about efforts of the cyclist for the foundation that helps persons that suffer from cancer to survive. The athlete also induced developing centers for researches connected with treatment of cancer. The Dallas Morning News noted also about accomplishments of the athlete which were done during his cycling career. Since young age Lance Armstrong succeeded in cycling. He obtained numerous awards. Lance Armstrong won Tour de France 7 consecutive times.
Even testicular cancer couldn’t defeat the celebrated cyclist. Although the cancer spread over the body, Lance Armstrong escaped from this dreadful trouble. Furthermore, he came back to professional cycling after his treatment and continued succeeding. While all positive actions of Lance Armstrong didn’t make him a finalist for the “Texan of the Year” award, his doping case did it. Of course, the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) contributed to his award. A dossier on Lance Armstrong’s doping case was published by the USADA. Furthermore, the cyclist’s sponsors left him after it was proven that he had doped. Thus, many individuals were convinced that the cyclist had administered banned drugs.
Texans admired of Lance Armstrong, when he had success in cycling. But when this athlete fell down, they started to blame him. It is not surprisingly because this is the essence of Texans. While they like to make certain individuals heroes, they like to blame them too.