Houston, Texas, January 28, 2026
Marcos Vélez, assistant director of United Steelworkers District 13, has emerged as a strong contender in the Democratic primary for Texas lieutenant governor. His campaign has received significant endorsements, including one from the Texas AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education, bolstering his visibility and appeal among working-class voters. With substantial financial backing from the Texas Majority PAC, Vélez aims to address key issues such as public school funding and working families’ support. As the primary approaches, his strong labor endorsements position him as a formidable candidate against his opponent, Vikki Goodwin.
Houston, Texas
Marcos Vélez, assistant director of United Steelworkers District 13, has emerged as a significant contender in the Democratic primary for Texas lieutenant governor, securing key endorsements and financial backing.
Vélez’s campaign received a major boost with an endorsement from the Texas AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education, the political arm of the state’s largest labor union federation. This endorsement is considered one of the most influential a Democratic candidate can receive in Texas.
Financially, Vélez’s campaign has been bolstered by substantial contributions from the Texas Majority PAC, a prominent Democratic campaign partner. In December 2025, the PAC donated $60,000 to Houstonians for Working Families, a political action committee supporting Vélez. This PAC subsequently contributed $55,000 to Vélez’s campaign, accounting for nearly three-quarters of his reported fundraising since launching his campaign in November 2025.
Vélez’s primary opponent, four-term state Representative Vikki Goodwin of Austin, reported a $161,000 war chest at the end of 2025. Despite this, Vélez’s labor endorsements and financial support have positioned him as a formidable challenger in the race.
Vélez, a Pasadena native, has a background as a mechanic and oil industry worker. He has emphasized his commitment to addressing the struggles of working Texans, advocating for increased public school funding, teacher pay, and support for working families over corporate political donors. His policy positions also include providing more property tax relief, increasing the minimum wage, and protecting rural water and farmland.
The Democratic primary for lieutenant governor is scheduled for March 3, 2026. The winner will face incumbent Republican Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who has nearly $40 million in his campaign coffers, in the general election.
Key Developments in the Race
The race for lieutenant governor in Texas is shaping up to be a contest of strong endorsements and financial backing. Marcos Vélez’s endorsement by the Texas AFL-CIO carries weight in a state where labor support can significantly sway voter sentiment. With his focus on policies that matter to everyday Texans, Vélez aims to distinguish himself from opponents and appeal to the working class.
Financial Landscape
Vélez’s campaign financing illustrates an effective fundraising strategy. The infusion of $55,000 from the Texas Majority PAC highlights the importance of financial support in modern campaigns. This backing not only allows for extensive outreach but also signals to voters that he has substantial support from established political networks.
Opponent Dynamics
Vikki Goodwin’s impressive $161,000 campaign fund illustrates the competitive nature of the Democratic primary. Despite Goodwin’s financial strength, Vélez’s labor endorsements could serve as a leverage point, potentially galvanizing grassroots support and mobilizing a dedicated voter base. The contrast in campaigning styles and messages will play a critical role leading up to the primary.
Vélez’s Commitment to Policy Issues
Vélez’s priorities are centered around increased funding for public services in Texas, particularly education. His commitment to supporting working families, alongside advocating for tax relief and minimum wage increases, resonates well within his target demographic. This focus showcases how a candidate can effectively align his platform with the concerns of local communities, potentially swaying undecided voters.
The Road Ahead
As the March primary approaches, the landscape remains dynamic with events unfolding rapidly. The combination of Vélez’s labor-backed campaign and Goodwin’s established political presence presents an interesting narrative in Texas politics. Winning the Democratic primary will be crucial as the eventual candidate prepares to face the powerful incumbent in the general election.
Conclusion
With the Texas lieutenant governor race heating up, Marcos Vélez’s strong endorsements and financial backing highlight the role of grassroots support in political campaigns. As the Democratic primary approaches, the opportunity for local engagement and support remains significant. The outcome of this race could set the tone for Texas politics in the coming years, so staying informed and involved is crucial for voters interested in shaping the future of their state.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Candidate | Marcos Vélez |
| Endorsements | Texas AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education |
| Financial Support | $60,000 from Texas Majority PAC |
| Primary Opponent | Vikki Goodwin |
| Primary Date | March 3, 2026 |
| Key Policy Focus | Public Education Funding, Working Families Support |
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