Gallegos’ open seat attracts many candidates

Sylvia Garcia

HOUSTON– State Senator Mario Gallegos won re-election on Nov. 6; however, his death left a seat open for senate district 6. This empty seat has attracted as many as 3 confirmed candidates.

Facing the battle to win the seat includes: State Representative Carol Alvarado, D-Houston, Democrats former county commissioner Sylvia Garcia and Gallego’s opponent in the past election, R. W. Bray, R-Houston.

Theresa Gallegos, the senator’s widow, said that her husband last wish was for Alvarado to succeed him.

In a public announcement made on Monday, Nov. 12 and along with Gallegos’ family and some supporters, Alvarado announced she is running to succeed Gallegos. She also said that Senator Gallegos had asked her to keep up the fight for good schools, good jobs, and affordable health care when he no longer could. Alvarado has six years of experience on the Houston City Council and has served two terms in the state House.

Sylvia Garcia also announced her candidacy after election results. Sylvia has the support of state representatives Armando Walle, Jessica Farrar and Ana Hernandez Luna. Garcia served for two terms as county commissioner.

Alvarado and Garcia are both strong opponents in this heavily Democratic district.

R.W. Bray will run again for district 6. He only got 29% of the vote in the past elections.

Gov. Perry will call for a special election, which could be before Christmas or by the beginning of February but before the next legislative session. At this special election, only names of the candidates will be listed and party nominees will be left out.