189. Barbacoa, Big Red, and Blue-Collar Votes: Johnny Garcia’s Vision for Texas’ 35th Congressional District
This week on bigcitysmalltown, we examine the newly redrawn Congressional District 35 and its implications for San Antonio, Bexar County, and surrounding rural communities. As political lines shift, so do the issues and challenges facing candidates and residents in the district.
Bob sits down with Johnny Garcia, Democratic candidate and sheriff’s deputy, to discuss the stakes of this pivotal race, the changing demographics of District 35, and how national partisan dynamics are playing out on deeply local terms.
They discuss:
- How redistricting has transformed District 35, shifting its profile from an Austin-anchored stronghold to a district rooted in San Antonio and neighboring counties
- The impact of national politics and party strategies on local races in Texas
- Garcia’s law enforcement background and how it shapes his approach to public safety, immigration, and criminal justice reform
- Economic challenges faced by local businesses, workers, and families—especially in the context of tariffs, inflation, and affordable housing
- The importance of grassroots engagement, earning the Latino and young voter support, and the role of outside money and national figures in the race
As early voting approaches, this conversation provides insight into one of Texas’ most consequential congressional races and the issues at the heart of San Antonio’s future.
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