Texas Republicans Find Challenger to Run Against Cuellar in Runoff

Texas Republicans have found their challenger, Jay Furman, to compete, in a runoff, for Texas Representative Henry Cuellar’s (D) congressional seat. Furman is a navy veteran and will battle Rep. Cuellar in Texas' 28th Congressional District.

Cuellar has been fighting a separate battle, as he and his wife are facing charges stemming from allegations that they took close to $600,000 in bribes from two foreign entities. The alleged actions took place over a seven-year span, from 2014 to 2021.

The Texas representative is liked by some Republicans for some of his views that align with theirs. For example, he is strict on measures surrounding abortion and immigration—often expressing his desire for stronger border legislation.

That said, Cuellar has stood against some of the more harsh actions and rhetoric that have come from some of the more rigid border legislation strongly supported by some Republicans.

In January, the representative released a statement on the tragic reports of the deaths of 3 migrants in Eagle Pass, TX.

“I recently learned that three migrants—a female adult and two children—drowned in the Rio Grande River near Shelby Park in Eagle Pass. Border Patrol learned on Friday, January 12, 2024, at approximately 9:00 P.M. that a group of six migrants were in distress as they attempted to cross the Rio Grande River,” said Rep. Cuellar.

“However, Texas Military Department soldiers stated they would not grant access to the migrants—even in the event of an emergency—and that they would send a soldier to investigate the situation. Earlier today, Saturday, January 13, 2024, the three migrant bodies were recovered by Mexican authorities,” said the Texas lawmaker.

“This is a tragedy, and the State bears responsibility,” stated Rep. Cuellar regarding the migrants' death.

Cuellar won his last election by a decent margin. However, with his recent troubles, it may be a little more difficult.