Johnny Garcia (D) will represent Texas’ 35th Congressional District in the House of Representatives next Congress, delivering an open seat to hand House Democrats the majority.
Garcia, a sheriff’s deputy in Bexar County, defeated opponent Carlos De La Cruz (R) with 55.4% of the vote, compared to De La Cruz’s 44.6%. The seat was previously held by Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX), who ran in a different district this election after mid-decade redistricting, leaving the San Antonio seat open until now.
"I threw my cowboy hat in the ring a year ago because I was pissed," Garcia said. "Pissed that Republicans redrew our congressional maps to try to silence voters and hold on to the House majority. Pissed that prices kept getting higher. Pissed that politicians have ripped health insurance away from millions of Texans while giving tax breaks to their biggest donors."
Both candidates highlighted their military backgrounds, public safety and concerns about affordability. Garcia emphasized his working-class San Antonio roots and the rising cost of living, while De La Cruz focused on border security, law enforcement and his military experience.
De La Cruz’s sister, incumbent Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX), was also up for reelection in Texas’ 15th Congressional District but was unseated by Democrat Bobby Pulido.
"As a veteran, I know what it means to accept an order you didn’t want," Carlos De La Cruz said. "Voters across America and Texas have spoken, and in our country the people have the final say. I wish Johnny Garcia well."
This story will be updated as additional results and developments become available.
