Controversy Surrounds Brandon Herrera's Nomination in Texas' 23rd Congressional District

Brandon Herrera, the GOP nominee for Texas’ 23rd congressional district, has a controversial history that includes past videos where he mimics a Nazi march and jokes about the Holocaust. His candidacy has drawn significant scrutiny, particularly from pro-Israel groups. In 2024, the Republican Jewish Coalition labeled him “a goose-stepping extremist” and invested heavily to defeat him. However, following the withdrawal of his primary opponent, Rep. Tony Gonzales, Herrera has emerged as the presumptive nominee in a district that President Donald Trump won by a substantial margin.

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Despite his past, the GOP establishment has largely embraced Herrera. Trump endorsed him, stating, “Brandon is strongly supported by many Highly Respected MAGA Warriors in Texas.” This endorsement has provided some reassurance to pro-Israel GOP donors, who are now faced with the dilemma of choosing between Herrera and a Democratic opponent. Gabriel Groisman, a Florida-based GOP donor, noted the difficult choice between supporting Herrera or a Democrat, emphasizing the complex dynamics at play.

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Pro-Israel organizations, including the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and the Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC), have opted not to endorse Herrera. AIPAC has stated it will continue to assess candidates' positions on issues affecting the U.S.-Israel partnership, while the RJC has reiterated its policy against supporting individuals who promote Nazi ideology. RJC political director Sam Markstein confirmed that the organization would likely abstain from the race rather than oppose Herrera directly.

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Democratic nominee Katie Padilla Stout has positioned Herrera's past statements as central to her campaign, labeling him as “consistently on the wrong side of history.” Her campaign has received support from various groups, including the Jewish community, which has rallied against Herrera's perceived antisemitism. Outside Democratic organizations, such as the House Majority PAC, are also leveraging Herrera's past for campaign attacks.

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While some Republican leaders have expressed concern about rising antisemitism within their ranks, they have largely refrained from commenting directly on Herrera. Notably, Sen. Lindsey Graham and Sen. Ted Cruz have avoided taking a definitive stance on Herrera's candidacy. Cruz, when asked about Herrera's statements, suggested that inquiries should be directed to Herrera himself, indicating a reluctance to engage with the controversy.

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As the election approaches, the Jewish Democratic Council of America is contemplating involvement in the race, marking a potential shift in strategy for the organization. The outcome of Herrera's candidacy could have significant implications for the GOP's relationship with pro-Israel donors and the broader political landscape in Texas.

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• “Brandon is strongly supported by many Highly Respected MAGA Warriors in Texas, and Republicans in the US House,” — Donald Trump, Former President

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• “The RJC has a longstanding policy of speaking out against those who traffic in Nazi ideology, and this is another case,” — Sam Markstein, RJC Political Director

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• “Given his documented history of apparent anti-semitism, it’s no surprise our campaign has received an outpouring of support from people from all across the district and from both sides of the aisle, including support from the Jewish community,” — Yolitzma Aguirre, Campaign Manager for Padilla Stout

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This situation highlights the complexities and challenges facing the GOP as it navigates internal divisions and external pressures in the lead-up to the election.

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