San Antonio, Texas, February 5, 2026
The 35th Congressional District of Texas has been significantly redrawn due to redistricting, leading to a competitive Democratic primary. As four candidates contend for the seat, the political landscape now appears more favorable to Republican candidates. Legal challenges have accompanied these changes, but the U.S. Supreme Court has allowed the new congressional map to proceed, paving the way for fierce competition in the upcoming primaries. Voters are encouraged to engage with the candidates and remain informed about the evolving political dynamics in the district.
San Antonio, Texas – Redrawn TX-35 Sets Stage for High-Stakes Democratic Primary
The 35th Congressional District of Texas has undergone significant changes due to recent redistricting, leading to a highly competitive Democratic primary. Four candidates are vying for the seat in this newly configured district.
Redistricting Alters TX-35’s Political Landscape
Historically, TX-35 connected Austin and San Antonio, encompassing a diverse mix of urban and suburban areas. However, the 2025 redistricting has reshaped the district, now primarily covering Southeast Bexar County and extending into Guadalupe, Wilson, and Karnes counties. This transformation has shifted the district’s political leanings, making it more favorable to Republican candidates. Analysts now consider the seat Republican-leaning, a stark contrast to its previous Democratic stronghold.
Legal Challenges and Supreme Court Decision
The redistricting process faced legal hurdles. In November 2025, a federal court in El Paso blocked the new congressional map, citing concerns over racial gerrymandering. However, in December 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed Texas to proceed with the redrawn map for the 2026 elections, overturning the lower court’s decision. This ruling has set the stage for the upcoming primary elections in the newly defined district.
Democratic Primary Candidates
With the district’s boundaries and political dynamics altered, four Democrats have entered the race for the open seat:
- Maureen Galindo: A mental health consultant and former San Antonio City Council candidate.
- Johnny Garcia: A Bexar County sheriff’s deputy.
- John Lira: A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and 2022 congressional candidate.
- Whitney Masterson-Moyes: A businesswoman with experience in the private sector.
The primary election is expected to be highly competitive, with candidates focusing on issues pertinent to the district’s new demographic and political landscape.
Background on TX-35
Prior to redistricting, TX-35 was known for its connection between Austin and San Antonio, serving as a political bridge between the two cities. The district was characterized by a mix of urban and suburban areas, with a significant Latino population. The recent redistricting has dramatically altered its composition, leading to a shift in its political orientation and setting the stage for a contentious primary election.
Key Takeaways
The changes in TX-35 offer an opportunity for reflection on how political boundaries can redefine community engagement and representation. The upcoming Democratic primary will not only show the candidates’ resilience and determination but also test how adaptable the electorate has become to these modifications. As we approach the election, it is imperative for voters to stay informed, engage with candidates, and participate actively in shaping the future of the district.
Staying involved in local politics and supporting candidates who resonate with Austin’s entrepreneurial spirit can drive economic growth and community development. Every vote counts in contributing to a vibrant political landscape that encourages innovation and representation.
FAQ
- What is the 35th Congressional District of Texas?
- The 35th Congressional District of Texas is a congressional district that has undergone significant changes due to recent redistricting, leading to a highly competitive Democratic primary.
- What changes were made to TX-35 during redistricting?
- The 2025 redistricting reshaped TX-35, now primarily covering Southeast Bexar County and extending into Guadalupe, Wilson, and Karnes counties, making it more favorable to Republican candidates.
- What was the outcome of the legal challenges to the redistricting?
- In December 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed Texas to proceed with the redrawn congressional map for the 2026 elections, overturning the lower court’s decision that had blocked the new map.
- Who are the candidates in the Democratic primary for TX-35?
- The Democratic primary features four candidates: Maureen Galindo, Johnny Garcia, John Lira, and Whitney Masterson-Moyes.
- How has the redistricting affected the political landscape of TX-35?
- The redistricting has shifted TX-35 from a Democratic stronghold to a Republican-leaning district, altering its political dynamics and setting the stage for a competitive primary election.
| Candidate | Background |
|---|---|
| Maureen Galindo | A mental health consultant and former San Antonio City Council candidate. |
| Johnny Garcia | A Bexar County sheriff’s deputy. |
| John Lira | A U.S. Marine Corps veteran and 2022 congressional candidate. |
| Whitney Masterson-Moyes | A businesswoman with experience in the private sector. |
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Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
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