Tejano music icon Bobby Pulido is exploring a congressional bid in South Texas, potentially challenging incumbent Rep. Monica De La Cruz in 2026. The Grammy-winning artist, a Democrat and Edinburg native, plans to retire from music by year’s end, with a decision on his political aspirations to follow.
Pulido, whose music has deep roots in South Texas, aims to bring a different approach to politics in the region. “I’m proud to be from the [Rio Grande Valley],” he said. “And I’m proud to say that in the RGV, people vote for the person, not the party.” He believes focusing on economic issues and incorporating religious themes can help Democrats reconnect with voters.
Pulido Eyes Congressional Run Amid Shifting South Texas Politics
Tejano superstar Bobby Pulido is forming an exploratory committee for a congressional bid in South Texas.
- Bobby Pulido, a Tejano music star, is considering a run for Congress in South Texas.
- He plans to retire from music and decide on a political bid by the end of the year.
- Pulido aims to depolarize the electorate and focus on economic issues.
- The 15th Congressional District has seen a rightward shift in recent elections.
- Redistricting efforts could alter the district’s boundaries before the 2026 election.
The 15th Congressional District, which stretches from Hidalgo County to the edge of San Antonio, elected De La Cruz, its first Republican representative, in 2022. Her victory margin increased from 8 percentage points in 2022 to 14 in 2024, with both Donald Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz winning the district by over 10 points.
Navigating a Politically Evolving Landscape
As Democrats seek to regain ground in South Texas following a challenging 2024 showing, Pulido sees an opportunity. He acknowledges the significant rightward shift among Latino voters in the region but believes his connection to the community can help bridge divides. “The further left we run on certain things, certain Latino voters are not in agreement with it — that’s just a fact,” Pulido commented. “But I still believe that as a Democratic Party, we’re a big tent, and we’ll accept all kinds of people. I also think that you can have the right messengers.”
Pulido plans to host “ranch halls” starting in August, combining backyard barbecues with policy discussions, to gauge support and refine his message. These events will feature music and discussions on economic solutions, including potential immigration policy changes. He highlighted the impact of tariffs, labor shortages, and immigration raids on South Texas industries as key issues.
In response, De La Cruz emphasized her legislative focus, stating, “Our children’s future is no song and dance. While others are busy testing the waters, I’m out there delivering them — literally.” The National Republican Campaign Committee, through spokesperson Zach Bannon, expressed confidence in De La Cruz’s ability to retain the seat, characterizing South Texans as uninterested in electing “far-left benchwarmers.”
Potential Primary Challenges and Allies
If Pulido enters the race, he could face a competitive Democratic primary. Ada Cuellar, an emergency physician from Harlingen, has already announced her candidacy. Pulido, while not recruited by the party, has engaged in discussions with prominent Latino Democrats, including Sen. Ruben Gallego of Arizona, Rep. Joaquin Castro of San Antonio, and former Rep. Filemon Vela of Brownsville.
The idea to run was reportedly sparked by Lorena Gonzalez, wife of Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, a moderate Democrat representing the adjacent 34th Congressional District. Pulido recounted that Lorena Gonzalez was impressed by his political insights during a campaign day and suggested he consider a run.
Pulido stated, “I don’t consider myself an overly partisan person. I have opinions on who we are and what we need as representation.”
