U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro of San Antonio announced today he is not running for U.S. Senate in Texas. The decision comes after the congressman was “all but certain” to run.
According to reporting by multiple mainstream news outlets, Castro said Wednesday he’s “gonna pass” on the race.
Castro’s twin brother, Julian, is currently running for the Democratic presidential nomination.
Democrats vying for the Senate seat include Sema Hernandez, who challenged Beto O’Rourke last year, and Air Force veteran MJ Hegar of Round Rock. Houston City Councilwoman Amanda Edwards is seriously considering a run.
In a statement, Hegar said on Wednesday, “I have tremendous respect for Congressman Castro and his commitment to public service, and I know Texas will continue to benefit from his strong leadership. I am laser-focused on our shared goal of defeating Senator Cornyn next November. Texans deserve a new Senator who reflects our values of strength, courage, and independence – someone who will always do what’s right for our state and put Texas first.”
Whoever the Democratic nominee for senate is, Republican John Cornyn, the incumbent, will have a fight on his hands. This will be the second consecutive competitive U.S. Senate race in Texas after years of Republican domination statewide.
