Trump-Backed Air Force Veteran Wins GOP Runoff in Texas House District
Carlos de la Cruz defeated state lawmaker John Lujan in a Republican primary runoff for a newly redrawn congressional district stretching from Austin to San Antonio. The race drew national attention because of the candidate's family ties and the district's political shift.
Fox NewsCarlos de la Cruz, an Air Force veteran, defeated Texas state lawmaker John Lujan in a Republican primary runoff for the newly redrawn 35th Congressional District. The district stretches from Austin to San Antonio and was redrawn to favor Republicans. De La Cruz finished second in the March primary before winning Tuesday's contest.
Cruz is the brother of Rep.
Monica de La Cruz, a Republican representing a nearby district. The two could become one of the rare sets of siblings serving together in the House. He also received endorsements from President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson.
The seat is currently held by Rep.
Gregorio Casar, who chose to run in an adjacent district after Rep. Lloyd Doggett decided not to seek re-election. The new boundaries make the district more favorable to Republicans than in previous elections.
" The comments were denounced by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Democrats remain optimistic about their chances in November despite the district's Republican tilt and its majority-Hispanic population.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
2 events- March 2026
John Lujan won the initial Republican primary with 33 percent to Carlos de la Cruz's 27 percent.
2 sourcesFox News · The New York Times - May 2026
Carlos de la Cruz defeated John Lujan in the Republican runoff for the 35th Congressional District.
2 sourcesFox News · The New York Times
Potential Impact
- 01
The winner will face a Democratic opponent in the November general election.
- 02
The result strengthens Republican positioning in the redrawn district.
Transparency Panel
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