Democrat Launches Re-Election In Redrawn Map
Texas Democrat Rep. Greg Casar (D-Austin) has officially launched his reelection campaign in the newly redrawn 37th Congressional District — a seat shaped by Republican redistricting that could dramatically shift the state’s political balance.
At 36, Casar — a rising figure in the Congressional Progressive Caucus — rolled out his campaign video pledging to press forward, saying he may lack deep pockets or decades of insider ties, but he has the backing of his supporters and isn’t going anywhere.
His announcement comes as Republicans, led by Gov. Greg Abbott and the GOP-controlled Texas Legislature, approved new congressional maps designed to strengthen Republican representation across the Lone Star State. The maps add five GOP-leaning seats and redraw key districts in Democrat-controlled Austin.
One of the biggest shake-ups involves longtime Rep. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), a 78-year-old career politician who was the first House Democrat to call on Joe Biden to step aside during last year’s presidential race. Doggett announced he will not run in the new district if the maps are upheld, effectively clearing the path for Casar.
Without Doggett in the way, Casar — a self-described progressive who backs left-wing policies unpopular with many Texas voters — will try to hold on to the seat. Republicans see the changes as an opportunity to challenge Democrat dominance in Austin, with 2024’s redistricting battle expected to shape future elections for years to come.
Casar’s launch also included endorsements from various Texas Democrats, signaling that the progressive wing of the party will rally behind him even as Republicans look to expand their influence in the state.
