Texas Congressional Race Heats Up: Cuellar Faces Challenge Amid Legal Troubles
As the November elections approach, voters in Texas’s 28th congressional district are gearing up for a pivotal decision: should they re-elect long-serving Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar, or opt for political newcomer and Republican challenger Jay Furman? This election is particularly significant as Cuellar, who has represented the district since 2005, faces serious legal challenges that could impact his political future.
The 28th district, which stretches from Laredo to downtown San Antonio, is home to over 725,000 constituents. Cuellar has been a familiar face in Washington, but his recent legal troubles have cast a shadow over his campaign. In May 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice charged him and his wife with 14 criminal counts, including bribery and money laundering. Cuellar has maintained his innocence, asserting that he has done nothing illegal. His trial is set to begin on March 31, 2025, just after the election.
Despite the controversies, Cuellar remains focused on his campaign. On his website, he emphasizes his commitment to fighting for the American Dream for families in South Texas. His spokesperson outlined Cuellar’s priorities if re-elected, which include improving access to affordable healthcare, enhancing border security, and investing in transportation infrastructure and education. He also pledges to protect Social Security and Medicare while working across party lines to support economic growth.
Cuellar currently serves on the House Appropriations Committee, a key position that influences federal spending. He aims to continue his work on this committee, should he win another term.
On the other side of the race, Jay Furman, a U.S. Navy veteran, is making his political debut. With a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University and a master’s from the Naval Postgraduate School, Furman presents himself as a fresh alternative to Cuellar. His campaign focuses on issues like border security, supporting local businesses, and pushing back against what he terms "woke insanity." Furman’s vision is to empower Texans and give them more control over their daily lives.
As the election date approaches, the stakes are high for both candidates. Cuellar’s long tenure and experience are pitted against Furman’s fresh perspective and military background. With all 435 U.S. House seats up for grabs in 2024, this race could play a crucial role in shaping the future of Congress, where Republicans currently hold a slim majority.
Voters in the 28th district will have the opportunity to make their voices heard on November 5, 2024. For those looking to stay informed, the latest election and political headlines can be found on the Vote 2024 page, along with details on where to vote and a sample ballot. As the countdown to the election continues, all eyes will be on Texas’s 28th district to see which candidate will emerge victorious in this heated contest.
