The Democratic runoff for Texas’ District 35, encompassing the San Antonio area, concluded with Bexar County Sheriff’s Deputy Johnny Garcia securing a decisive victory over housing activist Maureen Galindo. Garcia’s win came amid a surge of outside spending and controversy surrounding Galindo’s past antisemitic remarks.

Outside Influence and Controversy

Galindo, who had previously embraced antisemitic stereotypes on social media, drew attention when a mysterious group, Lead Left PAC, linked to the Republican donation platform WinRed, began supporting her campaign. This prompted a significant response from Democratic groups, which spent $1.7 million on ads to counter the GOP-backed push, labeling Galindo as “MAGA Maureen.”

Garcia, who raised concerns about the “arms race” of spending, criticized the Republican efforts to influence the election. He emphasized his commitment to challenging the district’s gerrymandered boundaries, which were designed to favor a Republican candidate.

Democratic Response

Prominent Democrats, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico, disavowed Galindo’s remarks, which included a proposal to turn an immigration detention center into a “prison for American Zionists.” The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and other groups launched ads portraying Galindo as the “easiest Dem to beat,” while promoting Garcia as the “one true Democrat in the race.”

Despite the controversy, Lead Left PAC continued its support for Galindo, spending over $1 million. However, the Democratic response, led by Project 218 and the Blue Dog Coalition, ultimately proved more influential, helping Garcia secure the nomination.

Looking Ahead

With the runoff concluded, Garcia will face Republican Carlos De La Cruz in the November general election. The district, which would have favored Donald Trump by a 10-point margin in 2024, is rated “likely Republican” by the Cook Political Report. Democrats hope to regain support from Latino voters, who make up over half of the district’s eligible population, amid concerns about the GOP’s economic policies.

In a post-election statement, Garcia expressed gratitude for the support and reaffirmed his commitment to opposing hate and division, stating, “No te metas con Tejas,” or “Don’t mess with Texas.”

Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.