Vicente Gonzalez Retains House Seat in Spite of Redistricting

Incumbent Representative Vicente Gonzales (D-TX) will serve Texas' 34th Congressional District in the House of Representatives next Congress after winning the midterm election this week.

Rep. Gonzalez defeated Eric Flores (R), Eddie Espinosa (G) and Chris Royal with 56.8% of the vote to represent parts of South Texas and the Gulf Coast, a largely Hispanic voter demographic. Flores received 38.8%, while Espinosa and Royal received 2.3 % and 2.2%. 

Like Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) who was also up for reelection, Rep. Gonzalez’s district was affected by the Republican-led redistricting efforts in 2025. In his campaign, Rep. Gonzalez focused on issues like affordability, inflation and health care access throughout his campaign.

"This is a major Blue Wave across the state of Texas," Rep. Gonzalez said, adding that his district was redrawn to push him out of his seat.

Rep. Gonzalez also emphasized border security, criticizing former President Joe Biden’s handling of the southern border and record-high migrant crossings, while also condemning President Donald Trump’s current immigration crackdown through Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Rep. Gonzalez held the seat for nearly 10 years, and although a Democrat, has broken rank with the party several times this Congress to vote with Republicans on issues like immigration enforcement, gun policy and restrictions on transgender students participating in girls’ sports.

Meanwhile, Flores, a Trump-endorsed former federal prosecutor and Army veteran, ran a campaign emphasizing his experience in border security enforcement and advocacy for veterans' issues. His conservative-values-focused campaign also emphasized supporting law enforcement.

"What an incredible journey," Flores said on X. "While tonight wasn't the outcome we fought for, I leave this campaign with my head held high, my heart full of gratitude, and my faith in God's plan stronger than ever!"

On the morning of Election Day, House Speaker and Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) joined Flores in South Texas to make a final pitch to voters – as the battleground seat was one Republicans were watching closely in hopes of retaining a House majority.

“America is rallying behind South Texas!” Flores wrote on X as polling sites opened.

This story will be updated as additional results and developments become available.