In the race for Texas Congressional District 35, Johnny Garcia and Carlos De La Cruz have emerged as the nominees for the Democratic and Republican parties, respectively. The Associated Press called the Democratic runoff for Garcia over Maureen Galindo at 9:35 p.m. and the Republican runoff for De La Cruz over John Lujan at 9:40 p.m. on Tuesday.
Redrawn District Brings New Challenges
The redistricting of Texas’ 35th Congressional District has shifted its boundaries significantly. Previously covering parts of San Antonio and four counties along Interstate 35, the district now includes areas in south, east, and northeast Bexar County, as well as Guadalupe, Karnes, and Wilson counties. This redrawing has prompted current Rep. Greg Casar to pursue a seat in the newly configured Austin-centric 37th Congressional District.
With Casar’s departure, the race for the 35th District attracted a diverse field of 15 candidates across both parties, culminating in the recent runoff elections. Garcia, with a background in law enforcement, and De La Cruz, an Air Force veteran, will now face off in the general election.
Profiles of the Candidates
Johnny Garcia, who has spent seven years as a spokesperson for the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, announced his candidacy last October. He has received endorsements from notable figures such as Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia and U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico. Garcia’s campaign has been marked by a public dispute with Galindo over issues of antisemitism and representation of Jewish voters.
Carlos De La Cruz, inspired to serve in the Air Force after the September 11 attacks, received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump. He is the brother of Rep. Monica De La Cruz, who ran unopposed in the Republican primary for District 15. De La Cruz’s military background and family connections add a unique dimension to his candidacy.
As the November election approaches, both candidates will aim to connect with voters in the newly drawn district, emphasizing their respective backgrounds and visions for the future.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
