Full Breakdown
Texas Democratic House Runoff Draws Fire Over Candidate’s Antisemitic Rhetoric
5/17/2026, 5:09:49 AM
Runoff Contest in Texas’s 35th District
A Democratic primary runoff is scheduled for May 26 in Texas’s 35th congressional district, a San Antonio-area seat that Democrats hope to flip after Republican-led redistricting reshaped the map. The contest pits Maureen Galindo, a housing activist and sex-and-family therapist, against sheriff’s deputy Johnny Garcia. Galindo led the March primary with 29.2 % of the vote, narrowly ahead of Garcia’s 27 %.
Redistricting and Party Stakes
The district’s 2023 redrawing created a competitive environment, prompting state leaders to view the seat as a potential pickup in the 2024 midterms. Texas state Representative James Talarico—running for U.S. Senate and positioned as a religious progressive—publicly refused to campaign with Galindo, citing concerns about her public statements. The race has attracted national attention as the Democratic Party balances electoral ambitions with its relationship with the Jewish community.
Principal Actors
- Maureen Galindo – Candidate known for anti-Zionist commentary, including a proposal to convert a local immigrant detention center into a “prison for American Zionists.”
- James Talarico – Texas state representative and Senate candidate, who has pledged not to support Galindo.
- Johnny Garcia – Sheriff’s deputy, endorsed by Democratic Majority for Israel (DMFI).
- Democratic Majority for Israel – Advocacy group funding a six-figure ad campaign for Garcia.
- Lean Left – Florida-based super PAC supporting Galindo, linked to Republican donors.
- San Antonio Jewish Community Relations Council – Local Jewish organization issuing a public condemnation of hateful speech.
Quantitative Snapshot
- Galindo’s campaign expenditures: ? $11,000.
- Primary vote share: Galindo 29.2 %, Garcia 27 %.
- San Antonio’s estimated Jewish population: 11,000 residents.
- DMFI ad spend: six-figure amount (exact figure not disclosed).
Official Statements & Responses
James Talarico announced he would not campaign with Galindo, labeling her rhetoric antisemitic and emphasizing the need for leaders to confront hate. Johnny Garcia described Galindo’s remarks as harmful to the Democratic Party and said he has consulted local Jewish voters. DMFI’s Brian Romick characterized Galindo’s positions as “vile, antisemitic conspiracies” that could jeopardize a Democratic House majority. The San Antonio Jewish Community Relations Council condemned all hateful speech, including antisemitic tropes, without naming a specific candidate.
Criticism & Opposition
Garcia and DMFI have mounted a coordinated effort to highlight Galindo’s statements, launching ads that portray her as a threat to Jewish voters. Former primary opponent John Lira withdrew his endorsement, citing “derogatory, inflammatory and conspiratorial statements.” Lean Left’s involvement has drawn scrutiny for its opaque funding and alleged Republican ties.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This antisemitic rhetoric has no place in our politics. We need leadership in both parties willing to stand up and call out hate wherever it rears its ugly head,” — James Talarico, Texas State Representative
- “I’m not antisemitic. In fact my last serious relationship was with a Jewish man,” — Maureen Galindo, House candidate
- “It gets people to sit out of elections and lose faith in the Democratic Party,” — Johnny Garcia, sheriff’s deputy
- “Johnny Garcia is a coalition builder who supports a strong U.S.-Israel relationship and has been clear in standing against antisemitism,” — Brian Romick, DMFI head
- “condemns any and all hateful speech, including the use of antisemitic tropes, in public discourse.” — San Antonio Jewish Community Relations Council
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Galindo’s claims that “Zionist billionaires own Hollywood, media companies and banks” are presented without independent verification. The extent of Lean Left’s funding sources remains unclear, and no official financial disclosures have been released.
What’s Next
The May 26 runoff will determine the Democratic nominee. A Galindo victory could force the state party to address internal divisions over antisemitic rhetoric, while a Garcia win may solidify DMFI’s influence and shape the district’s stance on U.S.–Israel policy.
