Update on Texas Congressional Race: Cuellar Declares Victory in Nail-Biter Runoff Against Cisneros

In a nail-biter primary runoff race in Laredo, U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar, the last anti-abortion Democrat in the U.S. House of Representatives, declared victory by a mere 177 votes. His progressive challenger, Jessica Cisneros, however, refused to concede, stating that the election was still too close to call.

The race, separated by less than 200 votes with all counties reporting their votes, has left both candidates on edge as they await the final results. Cuellar, who has deep connections to the community, expressed confidence in his victory, while Cisneros and her supporters remain hopeful for a different outcome.

The rematch from 2020 has been a rollercoaster of a campaign, with Cuellar initially appearing to be on stronger footing before facing setbacks, including an FBI raid on his home and campaign office. Cisneros capitalized on these developments, leading to a tight race that could potentially be decided by mail-in votes and a possible recount.

The outcome of this race will ultimately determine who will face off against Republican Cassy Garcia in the November general election. With the district now labeled a “toss-up” seat, both Cuellar and Cisneros have their strengths and weaknesses that could impact the final results.

Beyond differences in abortion, the candidates are at odds on various issues, including border security, energy, and environmental policy. Cuellar’s lead, though narrow, has solidified his position as the Democratic nominee for Congress, but the race is far from over as both candidates await the final verdict.