Carlos De La Cruz Launches GOP Bid for Texas’ Redrawn 35th Congressional District
A veteran and businessman, Carlos De La Cruz, brother of U.S. Rep. Monica De La Cruz, announced his candidacy Thursday for Texas’ newly configured 35th Congressional District, setting the stage for a competitive Republican primary in a district significantly altered to favor the GOP.
The 35th District, currently represented by Democratic Rep. Greg Casar, underwent a substantial overhaul during the state Legislature’s recent redistricting process. The new map removes all of Austin from the district, concentrating it within San Antonio and three heavily Republican counties to the east – Guadalupe, Karnes, and Wilson. This shift dramatically alters the political landscape, positioning the district as a likely win for a Republican candidate in the November general election.
De La Cruz, a 20-year Air Force veteran, framed his campaign as a continuation of his service to the nation. “I’m running for Congress because I’m not done fighting for my country,” he stated in a news release. “I’ve stared down terrorists and the cartel, so I know a threat when I see one. I’m ready to take that fight to Washington.” He pledged to be former President Donald Trump’s “wingman in Congress in the fight for America’s future.”
The redrawn district holds particular appeal for De La Cruz due to his sister’s existing political footprint. Monica De La Cruz has represented the neighboring 15th Congressional District for two terms, giving her brother a potential advantage in Guadalupe, Karnes, and Wilson counties. She has already publicly endorsed his campaign, stating, “He is a fighter, a devoted husband, a loving father, and the most patriotic man I know. I’m confident he will bring the kind of strong, conservative leadership Washington desperately needs.”
A Crowded Republican Field Emerges
While De La Cruz enters the race with a notable endorsement and geographic advantage, he is not the only Republican vying for the nomination. State Rep. John Lujan of San Antonio has already announced his candidacy, and several other prominent figures are considering a run. Bexar County Commissioner Grant Moody, San Antonio City Council Member Marc Whyte, Bexar County GOP Vice Chair Kyle Sinclair, and Kristin Tips, head of the Texas Funeral Service Commission, have all indicated their interest. Josh Cortez, a former advisor to Monica De La Cruz, is also seeking the GOP nomination.
Candidates are racing to meet the December 8 filing deadline, promising a robust and potentially contentious primary battle. De La Cruz has positioned himself as a “conservative outsider,” prioritizing the “stopping the radicalization of America’s youth,” strengthening the economy for working families, and improving public safety.
Casar Shifts Focus to Austin-Based District
The shifting political dynamics prompted current Representative Greg Casar to announce his intention to run for reelection in the 37th Congressional District, a solidly Democratic district based in Austin. This move effectively opens up the 35th District for a Republican takeover.
Analysts predict that the eventual Republican nominee will be heavily favored in the general election. Had the new 35th District boundaries been in place during the 2024 presidential election, it would have voted for Donald Trump by a 10-point margin, signaling a significant shift in the district’s political leanings.
The Texas Tribune Festival, taking place November 13–15 in downtown Austin, will provide a platform for discussion of these and other critical issues facing the state. https://www.texastribune.org/festival/ The event is presented by JPMorgan Chase.
