Summary
Tony Gonzales, a Republican Congressman from Texas, announced his resignation following an ethics investigation, prompting a special election for Texas’ 23rd Congressional District. This open-seat race now features Democrat Katy Padilla Stout and Republican Brandon Herrera, with Democrats viewing it as a rare opportunity in a district traditionally controlled by Republicans.
Key Facts
- Tony Gonzales, a Republican, resigned from Congress after an ethics investigation.
- His departure opens up Texas’ 23rd Congressional District for a special election.
- The district covers 27 counties and includes areas from San Antonio to the U.S.–Mexico border.
- Republicans have controlled this district for over a decade, helped by redistricting.
- Democrat Katy Padilla Stout runs against Republican Brandon Herrera in the upcoming election.
- A poll shows Stout slightly trailing Herrera, 42% to 40%, with many voters undecided.
- Allegations against Herrera include making inappropriate jokes, which he denies.
- Stout's and Herrera's public images remain largely undecided among voters.