politics
Texas Democrat advances to runoff despite party criticism over Israel remarks
Maureen Galindo placed first in the March 3 primary for Texas' 35th Congressional District. She will face Johnny Garcia in a May 26 runoff after her comments drew condemnation from Democratic leaders.
May 26, 5:00 AM·1m read1 source
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Maureen Galindo, a sex therapist and housing advocate, received the most votes in the March 3 Democratic primary for Texas' 35th Congressional District. She spent $5,344.50 through the end of March, according to Federal Election Commission filings. Her statements about Israel drew attention after the primary.
Party response and spending Johnny Garcia finished second in the primary and received endorsements from the Democratic Majority for Israel and support from BDA PAC, which spent nearly $1 million on his behalf. Garcia said that greater awareness of Galindo's comments before the first round would have changed the outcome.
" John Lira, who placed fourth, withdrew his earlier endorsement after reviewing the remarks. The runoff occurs after Texas Republicans redrew the district lines last year. The new boundaries would have favored former President Trump by 10 points in 2024, according to a CNN analysis.
The winner will face either state Rep. John Lujan or Air Force veteran Carlos De La Cruz in November.
