Texas: Candidates File

In a state with a large delegation that normally sees little in the way of congressional competition, candidates have come out in droves to run next year.  With seven open seats (5R-2D) in the 36-member delegation, Monday’s filing deadline produced a record number of 213 federal political contenders (90 major party candidates in the open seat category alone).  Of the 29 incumbents seeking re-election to the House, 27 have opposition.  Only two House members, Reps. Joaquin Castro (D-San Antonio) and Henry Cuellar (D-Laredo), have no opponent in either the primary or general election.   Just eight incumbents are unopposed in their respective nomination election (5R-3D), meaning 21 have at least nominal primary opposition (15R-6D).  It remains to be seen how many of these many candidates develop strong campaigns, but it is a sure bet that 2018 will be a more active political year in the Lone Star State.
 
In the Senate race, first-term incumbent Ted Cruz (R) has drawn primary opposition from four GOP contenders, but none appears particularly strong.  He is virtually assured of facing Rep. Beto O’Rourke (D-El Paso) in the general election.  The latter man faces only two token Democratic candidates for his party nomination.  Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has drawn three Republican and twelve Democratic opponents.  Mr. Abbott is a prohibitive favorite for re-election, but will likely face either Dallas County Sheriff Lupe Valdez or businessman Andrew White, son of the late former Gov. Mark White (D), in the general election.

--Jim Ellis