Ex-MLB player Mark Teixeira campaigning for vacant House seat in Texas

Mark Teixeira Announces Candidacy for US House Seat in Texas

Former Major League Baseball player Mark Teixeira has officially put his hat in the ring for the vacant US House seat in Texas, a move he shared on Thursday.

Teixeira, known for his time with several teams, including the Texas Rangers, played over 13 years in the league. He described himself as a “lifetime conservative” in a post on the social platform X, emphasizing his commitment to making both Texas and the country “great.”

He’s aiming for the Texas 21st Congressional District seat, which is currently held by Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas).

Recently, Roy, who is part of the Conservative Freedom Caucus, announced that Ken Paxton would be running for the Senate and for state attorney general.

Teixeira has made it clear that he aligns himself with President Trump, asserting, “Teamwork is essential for victory. We are committed to supporting President Trump’s inaugural American agenda, which focuses on Texas families and personal freedoms.”

In his announcement, Teixeira praised Roy’s tenure in the district, commending his “unwavering courage” and substantial legacy of conservative leadership. He also reflected on his own connections to Texas.

“Having played for the Texas Rangers and building a family here in the Lone Star State was truly one of the greatest joys of my life,” he stated. “Now, I feel compelled to uphold the conservative values that shaped my country and my state.”

During his career, Teixeira spent over four years with the Rangers before stints with the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels, and New York Yankees. He earned three All-Star selections, five Gold Gloves, and was part of the Yankees’ World Series championship team in 2009.

Teixeira stepped away from baseball after the 2016 season.

On his campaign website, he laid out various conservative positions, calling for stricter immigration policies, improvements in governmental efficiency to reduce “wasteful spending,” and a staunch defense of the Second Amendment.

He also expressed his opposition to abortion, a desire to end “endless wars,” and support for term limits in Congress.

Teixeira is the first Republican to enter the race following Roy’s announcement, though others may soon join. Kyle Sinclair, Vice-Chair of the Bexar County GOP, mentioned to the Texas Tribune that he is considering a run in the same district.