Maureen Galindo’s Antisemitic Rhetoric Sparks Political Fallout in Texas’s 35th District

Democratic candidate Maureen Galindo announced on Instagram that she would turn the Karnes ICE Detention Center, a migrant facility south of San Antonio, into a “prison for American Zionists” and a “castration processing center for pedophiles, which will probably be most of the Zionists.” She also said she would draft legislation labeling Zionism anti-Semitic and claimed “billionaire Zionists” control Hollywood, media, banks and politicians.

MediaiteTimes of IsraelRaw StorySan Antonio CurrentMaureen Galindo faces backlash over antisemitic posts in Texas runoff — MogazTexas Public Radio

Galindo, a housing activist and sex therapist, denies antisemitism, stating “I’m not antisemitic. In fact my last serious relationship was with a Jewish man.” Her runoff opponent, Bexar County sheriff’s deputy Johnny Garcia, rejects accusations of AIPAC funding and points to an endorsement from Democratic Majority for Israel. Texas state Rep. James Talarico, a U.S. Senate candidate, announced he will not campaign with Galindo if she wins. The San Antonio Jewish Federation (JFSA) issued a statement condemning Galindo’s remarks as hateful rhetoric targeting the Jewish community. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has endorsed Garcia, while Democratic Majority for Israel (DMFI) launched a six-figure ad campaign urging Democrats to “unify behind pro-Israel Democrat Johnny Garcia.”

Texas Public RadioTimes of IsraelSan Antonio CurrentMaureen Galindo faces backlash over antisemitic posts in Texas runoff — MogazRaw StoryMediaite

Rep. James Talarico denounced Galindo’s remarks as antisemitic and called for leaders to confront hate. The San Antonio Jewish Federation said the rhetoric targeting the Jewish community is unacceptable. The DCCC’s endorsement of Garcia reflects institutional resistance to Galindo’s messaging, while DMFI urged Democrats to unite behind Garcia.

Texas Public Radio

Former primary opponent John Lira rescinded his endorsement, and local progressives warned Galindo’s rhetoric could depress Democratic turnout. Garcia called the remarks “hurtful” and said they “drive voters away from the Democratic Party.” Critics noted that Garcia’s alleged AIPAC funding remains unverified, and Galindo’s claim that ICE operates under Israeli control lacks evidence.

Texas Public Radio

• “This antisemitic rhetoric has no place in our politics.” — James Talarico, Texas state Representative

Times of Israel

• “I’m not antisemitic. In fact my last serious relationship was with a Jewish man,” — Maureen Galindo, candidate

Times of Israel

• “The JFSA strongly condemns the spread of antisemitic tropes and conspiracy theories in public discourse,” — San Antonio Jewish Federation

San Antonio Current

• “It gets people to sit out of elections and lose faith in the Democratic Party.” — Johnny Garcia, Bexar County sheriff’s deputy

Texas Public Radio

The May 26 runoff pits Galindo against Garcia in a district reshaped by redistricting and rated “likely Republican.” Galindo’s campaign has spent $11,000 and relies on the Lean Left super-PAC, which media reports tie to Republican donors. Garcia benefits from the DCCC’s endorsement and a DMFI ad campaign, raising questions about the Democratic nominee’s viability in November.

Texas Public Radio

Early voting closed May 22; the runoff occurs May 26. The party will decide whether to rally behind the winner.

San Antonio Current