San Antonio, Texas, August 28, 2025
News Summary
Former MLB star Mark Teixeira has declared his intent to run for the U.S. House seat in Texas’s 21st Congressional District, aiming to succeed Rep. Chip Roy. Known for his conservative values, Teixeira prepares for a competitive race, with a Republican primary scheduled for March 2026. His background as a successful athlete could resonate with voters in the region, marking a significant shift in his career from sports to politics.
San Antonio, Texas – Former Major League Baseball star Mark Teixeira has announced his candidacy for a U.S. House seat in Texas, aiming to replace Republican Rep. Chip Roy in the 21st Congressional District. Teixeira’s announcement came on Thursday as he prepares to enter the political arena, running as a Republican in the lead-up to the 2026 midterm elections.
The 21st Congressional District encompasses parts of the San Antonio and Austin suburbs, extending into the scenic Hill Country, including cities such as Fredericksburg and Kerrville. With Chip Roy not seeking re-election as he pivots to focus on his campaign for Texas Attorney General, this seat is now an open opportunity for Teixeira.
At 45 years old, Teixeira enjoyed a successful MLB career spanning 14 years, starting with the Texas Rangers in 2003. Known as a three-time MLB All-Star and a World Series champion in 2009 with the New York Yankees, he earned various accolades, including one All-Star Game appearance and two Gold Glove awards during his tenure with the Rangers. After his time in Texas, Teixeira was traded to the Atlanta Braves, then played for the Los Angeles Angels, and spent the last eight years of his career with the Yankees. He relocated back to Texas in 2021, settling in Central Texas with his wife and three children.
Teixeira has identified as a lifelong conservative, expressing his commitment to advocating for Texas values and American principles. He is also known for supporting Texas Governor Greg Abbott and promoting conservative policies, although he has limited political experience. Despite this, his passion for public service seems to drive his campaign ambitions.
As of now, Daniel Betts is acknowledged as a potential opponent for the Republican nomination against Teixeira. The scheduled date for the Republican primary is March 3, 2026, followed by a primary runoff on May 26, 2026. The general election for the U.S. House seat will take place on November 3, 2026. Candidates must file by December 8, 2025, to enter the race. So far, three Democrats and one Independent have registered to run, with Teixeira currently standing as the only Republican candidate on the list.
Background on Chip Roy
Chip Roy, the current representative of the 21st District, has been steering away from this role to concentrate on his bid for Texas Attorney General. His decision not to seek re-election has set the stage for a competitive race among candidates eager to represent the district.
Teixeira’s Campaign Strategy
Mark Teixeira’s background as a professional athlete might give him a unique perspective on issues affecting both the sports community and general governance. By emphasizing his conservative beliefs, Teixeira hopes to connect with voters who share his views on various political issues. His journey from the baseball diamond to the political landscape comes at a crucial time as the nation approaches the upcoming midterm elections.
Conclusion
With the political landscape intensifying towards the 2026 elections, Teixeira’s candidacy brings a fresh face to the Republican pool, generating interest among constituents in the 21st Congressional District. It remains to be seen how his campaign will unfold and whether he can tap into the local conservative sentiment as he vies for a pivotal political role.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is Mark Teixeira?
- Mark Teixeira is a former MLB player who is now running for a U.S. House seat in Texas.
- Which district is Teixeira running for?
- He is running for the 21st Congressional District in Texas.
- What is the significance of Chip Roy’s decision?
- Chip Roy is not seeking re-election, creating an open seat for candidates like Teixeira.
- When are the key election dates?
- The Republican primary is set for March 3, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.
- What is Teixeira’s political background?
- Teixeira is a lifelong conservative with limited political experience but a strong interest in public service.
Key Features Chart of the U.S. House Race
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Candidate | Mark Teixeira |
| District | 21st Congressional District, Texas |
| Political Party | Republican |
| Incumbent | Chip Roy (not seeking re-election) |
| Primary Date | March 3, 2026 |
| General Election Date | November 3, 2026 |
| Filing Deadline | December 8, 2025 |
| Competitors | Daniel Betts (Republican), 3 Democrats, 1 Independent |
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