South Texas Democratic Rep. Vicente Gonzalez has won a fourth term in office after defeating political newcomer, Rep. Mayra Flores, R. Because redistricting changed district geography, both candidates were technically running for reelection. 

Flores flipped the 34th District when she won the special election this summer. That election was held using the old district boundaries that were in place from 2010 to 2020. This election was held using new boundaries drawn during the previous redistricting cycle that are seen as far more favorable to Democrats. Before the map was redrawn, Gonzalez represented the 15th District.

Gonzalez comes from a military family and worked his way from holding a GED to going to community college and ultimately graduating from Texas A&M School of Law. He opened his own practice that focused on insurance claims and representing clients in fair pay disputes against corporations.

Flores was born in Mexico and lived there until she was 6 years old. She then immigrated legally into the United States. Her parents were migrant workers that moved the family around South Texas frequently. Flores describes herself as a firm believer in the American dream who always puts God and family first.

Flores, along with South Texas candidates Cassy Garcia and Monica De La Cruz, is a leader in the effort to turn the region’s Latinos from Democrat to Republican. They believe the Republican platform better aligns with Latino values including faith and family. There are also many who come from families that immigrated to the United States legally and a frustrated with the current influx of illegal immigration.