The Democratic field in CD23 has gotten bigger, and may grow again.
Manny Pelaez, a trustee of VIA Metropolitan Transit, has filed a statement of candidacy for Congressional District 23, a seat held by U.S. Rep. Francisco “Quico” Canseco, R-San Antonio.
Pelaez, 37, is running as a Democrat.
That pits him in the March primary against declared candidate Ciro Rodriguez, a veteran Southside politico whom Canseco defeated last year.
Pelaez was out of the country and not available for comment Monday.
“This filing is the first step in the process of determining whether or not my candidacy for congress (sic) is the right thing for this district, my family, and for me,” he wrote in a prepared statement. “Over the next several weeks, I’ll be having some serious talks with leaders from all corners of the district to better understand their priorities and needs. In the meantime, however, I’m just exploring and carefully considering all options.”
State Rep. Pete Gallego, D-Alpine, said Monday that he’s considering a challenge in District 23 but had not decided to run.
“I certainly think that if I join in the fray, I’d do fairly well,” he said.
Other than what’s in this story, I know nothing about Mr. Pelaez. Rep. Gallego is a valued member of the House Democratic Caucus, and his departure would be a loss if he chooses to run for CD23, but that’s what having new blood is all about. I will wish him all the best if he decides to jump into this race. I have nothing against Ciro Rodriguez, who was and would be a good member of Congress, but as I’ve said before no one is entitled to a nomination. A little competition would be good for everyone. More to the point, having viable candidates run for offices that are currently held by Republicans is a healthy and necessary step for 2012 and beyond. We’re not going to get anywhere if we don’t run some races we could lose.
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