Editorial Board Endorsements for Democratic Primary Races
The political landscape in Austin is shifting dramatically this election cycle, with redistricting playing a major role in the changes. The Austin Chronicle’s Editorial Board has weighed in on the Democratic primary races, offering their endorsements for candidates they believe will best represent the progressive values of the city.
In the U.S. Congress races, Coy Branscum and Claudia Zapata are highlighted as strong contenders in the TX-21 district, while Greg Casar is endorsed for TX-35, with hopes of him joining a superheroic trio alongside Lloyd Doggett and Joaquin Castro. Doggett, a longtime incumbent, is endorsed for TX-37 without much understanding of why anyone would run against him.
Moving to statewide races, Beto O’Rourke is the clear choice for Governor, with Mike Collier endorsed for Lieutenant Governor and Rochelle Garza and Joe Jaworski endorsed for Attorney General. The Editorial Board refrains from endorsing a candidate for Comptroller, but Jay Kleberg is endorsed for Land Commissioner and Susan Hays for Agriculture Commissioner.
In Central Texas races, Rebecca Bell-Metereau is endorsed for State Board of Education, Erin Zwiener for Texas House District 45, James Talarico for Texas House District 50, and Lulu Flores for Texas House District 51. The Courthouse races see endorsements for various judicial positions, with candidates like Rosa Lopez Theofanis, Daniella Deseta Lyttle, and Chantal Eldridge receiving nods of approval.
In Travis County, Dyana Limon-Mercado is endorsed for County Clerk, Brigid Shea for Commissioner of Precinct 2, and Susanna Ledesma-Woody for Commissioner of Precinct 4. Yvonne Williams and Nick Chu are endorsed for Justice of the Peace positions, with the Editorial Board expressing confidence in their abilities to serve the community effectively.
Overall, the endorsements reflect a desire for progressive change and a commitment to candidates who align with the values of the Austin community. The upcoming primary will be crucial in determining the future direction of the city and the state as a whole.
