Story perspectives

Texas 35th Democratic Runoff: Galindo, Garcia Amid Antisemitism Claims

5/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

Maureen Galindo and Johnny Garcia will meet in the Democratic runoff for Texas’ 35th Congressional District on May 26, 2026.
Galindo won the March primary with 29.2% (15,931 votes) versus Garcia’s 27.0% (14,743 votes).
Texas and national Democratic officials called Galindo’s remarks about Israeli Zionists and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) antisemitic.
Galindo denied antisemitism, said she opposes Zionist Jews, and received ad support from Lead Left PAC with undisclosed funding.

History

Historical Context

In 1998, after ethics investigations and criticism from watchdog groups, New York Democrat Charles Rangel—who served 46 years in the House—survived a tight Democratic primary, foreshadowing later intra-party fights over Israel-related statements. The May 2026 controversy over Texas candidates Maureen Galindo and Johnny Garcia, denounced by the Texas Democratic Party and ICE, illustrates the same pattern of party disputes shaping campaign finance and voter alignment.

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Story summary

Maureen Galindo and Johnny Garcia will meet in the Democratic runoff for Texas’ 35th Congressional District on May 26, 2026.
Galindo won the March primary with 29.2% (15,931 votes) versus Garcia’s 27.0% (14,743 votes).
Texas and national Democratic officials called Galindo’s remarks about Israeli Zionists and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) antisemitic.
Galindo denied antisemitism, said she opposes Zionist Jews, and received ad support from Lead Left PAC with undisclosed funding.

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