Trump Makes Another Endorsement
President Donald Trump announced Wednesday night that he is backing Texas Republican Brandon Herrera in the contest to succeed departing Rep. Tony Gonzales in Texas’s 23rd Congressional District, a Republican-leaning area that stretches along much of the U.S.–Mexico border.
The endorsement signals strong support from the president as Republicans work to maintain control of the important border district, which stretches hundreds of miles from San Antonio to El Paso.
With immigration, border security, and economic policy dominating national headlines, the race is expected to draw significant attention heading into the November election.
Rep. Tony Gonzales Withdraws from the Race
The seat became open after Rep. Tony Gonzales withdrew from the race earlier this year following mounting pressure from Republican leaders.
Gonzales faced controversy after reports surfaced about an affair with a former staff member who previously worked in his congressional office. The woman later died by suicide, a tragic development that intensified public scrutiny and ultimately contributed to Gonzales stepping away from the campaign.
Republican leaders quickly began looking toward potential candidates who could keep the district in GOP hands.
Trump Throws Support Behind Brandon Herrera
President Trump announced his endorsement on Truth Social, praising Herrera and highlighting his support among grassroots conservatives.
Trump said Herrera already enjoys strong backing from respected members of the MAGA movement in Texas as well as several Republican lawmakers in Washington.
The president expressed confidence that Herrera would strongly support policies focused on economic growth, national security, and American energy independence.
According to Trump, Herrera would work to:
- Grow the American economy
- Reduce taxes and government regulations
- Strengthen American manufacturing
- Expand U.S. energy production
- Protect election integrity
- Promote school choice
- Secure the southern border
- Support the military, veterans, and law enforcement
- Defend Second Amendment rights
Trump emphasized that Herrera would help advance the America First agenda in Congress.
Herrera Known as Strong Second Amendment Advocate
Herrera has built a national following among conservatives as a firearms enthusiast and outspoken defender of the Second Amendment.
He frequently describes himself as a strong advocate for constitutional rights and limited government, positions that resonate with many voters in the conservative-leaning district.
In addition to supporting gun rights, Herrera’s campaign platform highlights several priorities that align closely with Trump’s policies, including stronger border enforcement, economic growth, and support for American energy production.
Herrera Responds to Trump’s Endorsement
Shortly after the endorsement was announced, Herrera responded on the social platform X, thanking President Trump for his support.
Herrera said the campaign is now focused on winning the general election and continuing to deliver conservative leadership for voters in Texas’s 23rd District.
He also emphasized the importance of defeating Democratic challengers in November.
November Election Matchup
Herrera is expected to face Democratic attorney Katy Padilla Stout in the November general election.
Although the district has historically leaned Republican, both parties are expected to compete aggressively as control of the House remains closely watched nationwide.
Republican leaders see the district as critical to maintaining a strong conservative presence in Congress.
Trump Still Undecided in Texas Senate Race
While Trump has made his choice in the House race, he has not yet endorsed a candidate in the high-profile Texas U.S. Senate race.
Sen. John Cornyn and Texas AG Ken Paxton are heading toward a Republican runoff election after neither candidate secured more than 50 percent of the vote in the state’s primary.
Trump previously told reporters he was taking a “serious look” at endorsing someone in the race but had not announced a final decision before the primary vote.
If Cornyn ultimately wins reelection, he would begin his fifth term in the United States Senate.
The Bottom Line
Trump’s endorsement of Brandon Herrera adds significant momentum to the Texas congressional race and signals strong support from the conservative movement.
With border security, economic policy, and Second Amendment rights remaining key issues for voters, the race in Texas’s 23rd District is expected to remain closely watched as the November election approaches.
