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Politician Aims for Comeback in Texas House Race
EXCLUSIVE REPORT: The first Mexico-born member of Congress is set to announce her campaign for a comeback in a critical House race, challenging a Democrat whom Republicans consider highly vulnerable for the 2026 election cycle.
Former Representative Mayra Flores, R-Texas, emphasized the need for more voices within the Spanish-speaking community to counter misinformation and promote positive narratives about the achievements of the Trump administration. She expressed her frustration during an interview with Fox News Digital prior to her official announcement.
Flores highlighted, “We don’t have enough representation in media platforms like Telemundo, effectively communicating the significant work that President Trump and his administration have accomplished. I feel a responsibility to address the rampant misinformation being spread by the left, which aims to instill fear and division within the Hispanic community.”
Flores served a brief tenure in Congress from late June 2022 to early January 2023, having flipped Texas’ 34th Congressional District from Democratic control to Republican through a special election, succeeding former Rep. Filemon Vela Jr.
In her previous campaign, she faced off against current Congressman Vicente Gonzalez, D-Texas, in two election contests. Though Flores lost the re-election bid, her rematch came within less than a 3% margin, narrowing the gap significantly.
Targeting Cuellar in Texas’ 28th District
For her 2026 campaign, Flores is setting her sights on challenging a different Democrat, Rep. Henry Cuellar, who represents the Laredo-anchored 28th Congressional District. She informed Fox News Digital about her intention to run in a district she describes as a viable opportunity for the Republican party.
Cuellar, known for his moderate stance on issues such as border security and crime, has maintained a congressional seat since 2005, with his electoral margins varying from tight victories to more than 30%. Most recently, he secured a win last November by a narrow margin of less than 6%, or approximately 13,000 votes, amidst ongoing federal investigations into corruption allegations.
Flores articulated her sense of duty, stating, “My campaign isn’t about what I want, but rather what this country needs me to do. This seat in Texas 28 represents a crucial opportunity that can be flipped in 2026, contributing to a larger Republican majority that is essential for implementing President Trump’s agenda.”
She further noted, “With personal ties to the district and a deep knowledge of its concerns, I believe we can make a significant impact here.”
Indictment Scandal Presents Unique Challenge
Cuellar’s ongoing legal issues add another layer of complexity to the electoral landscape. The federal indictment against him includes numerous corruption charges, further fueling the Republican narrative that this seat is ripe for the taking. Having been in office since before Flores was born, Cuellar’s long tenure has come under scrutiny.
Flores says, “Regardless of political affiliation, being a representative is a role with the potential to make a difference for many individuals. However, Cuellar has neglected this commitment, losing sight of the responsibility that comes with serving the people.” Cuellar has consistently denied any wrongdoing and maintains that both he and his wife are innocent of the allegations against them.
In response to the indictment, Cuellar stated, “The actions I’ve taken in Congress were always meant to serve the people of South Texas. Both my wife and I are innocent, and I sought legal advice prior to any action I took. I ensured my decisions were consistent with the ethics guidelines of my colleagues and the interests of the American public.”
Flores’ Focus on Agriculture and Economy
Mayra Flores articulated her policy priorities when discussing her vision for a second congressional term, placing emphasis on critical issues such as agriculture and the economy. She remarked, “Economic stability is fundamental. Without proper financial resources, families struggle for basic necessities like housing and transportation. This is why the economy ranks high on my agenda.”
Sharing her connection to agriculture, Flores reflected on her past as a farmworker, noting, “My parents were migrant workers, and I understand the challenges we face. We need to prioritize our agricultural workforce within policy discussions.”
Moreover, she drew parallels between the Republican push for U.S. energy independence and food security, stating, “Just as energy independence is crucial for our nation, achieving food independence must also be a priority.”
Political Landscape on the Horizon
As Flores gears up for her campaign, she is aware of the challenges that lie ahead. An incumbent who has navigated turbulent waters, Cuellar remains a formidable opponent. However, Flores believes her unique background, combined with pressing community issues, positions her as a strong contender.
Ultimately, the upcoming election cycle will determine whether Flores can regain her congressional seat and the potential shift in political dynamics in Texas. With a combination of strategic messaging and community engagement, she hopes to resonate with voters in the 28th District, particularly as they navigate complex political and economic landscapes.
As the political climate evolves, one thing becomes clear: elections are not just about candidates, but about the issues that matter to the constituents they aim to serve. Flores’ commitment to her community and her advocacy for Hispanic voices place her in a distinct position for a potential political resurgence in a historically competitive district.
