Progressive Groups and Unions Rally Behind Jessica Cisneros in Texas Congressional Race

Progressive Groups and Unions Rally Behind Jessica Cisneros in Texas Congressional Race

In a high-stakes primary battle in Texas, progressive groups and labor unions have joined forces to support congressional candidate Jessica Cisneros in her bid to unseat Rep. Henry Cuellar, one of the most conservative Democrats in Congress. The coalition, which includes the Working Families Party, the Communication Workers of America, the Service Employees International Union, and the Texas Organizing Project, announced they will be spending at least $350,000 to bolster Cisneros’ campaign in the final two weeks leading up to the primary.

Cisneros, a 26-year-old human rights lawyer and first-time candidate, has garnered significant support from prominent liberal politicians and organizations, including Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Sen. Bernie Sanders. Despite being outspent by Cuellar, Cisneros has demonstrated strong fundraising capabilities, raising over $513,000 in the fourth quarter of 2019.

Cuellar, who has represented Texas’s 28th Congressional District since 2005, has received substantial backing from conservative groups, including the U.S Chamber of Commerce and the American Workers for Progress. His campaign has also launched negative ads against Cisneros, attacking her positions on abortion and the oil and gas industry.

The race has drawn national attention as a battleground between the establishment and progressive wings of the Democratic Party. With the support of labor unions and liberal organizations, Cisneros is hoping to unseat Cuellar, who has been criticized for his ties to big business and his conservative voting record.

As the primary approaches, progressive allies of Cisneros are intensifying their efforts, with NARAL dispatching a full-time organizer to Laredo and EMILY’s List providing training and support to her campaign staff. J Street, a pro-Israel advocacy group, has already bundled over $30,000 for Cisneros’ campaign, signaling widespread support for her candidacy.

With the momentum building in the final stretch of the campaign, Cisneros and her supporters are optimistic about their chances of unseating Cuellar and sending a message about the direction of the Democratic Party. The outcome of this primary race could have far-reaching implications for the future of progressive politics in Texas and beyond.