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San Antonio Congressman Joaquin Castro, who at 42 is one of the rising stars of the national Democratic party, said today he will not challenge Republican Ted Cruz for the U.S. Senate in 2018, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
Castro says he has spoken to supporters all over the state, and he says he is inspired by their 'passion and their optimism.
'But, in a statement, Castro said the urgent nature of world affairs make his U.S. House seat more important than a political run
."With the threats posed by Russia and North Korea, coupled with the reckless behavior of this Administration and their failure to invest in economic opportunity for the American people, at this time I believe I can best continue that work by focusing on my duties in the House Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Committees," Castro said in a statement released by his campaign manager.
Castro is expected to easily win re-election to his San Antonio House seat, which is safely Democratic.
Castro also cited he and his wife's two young children for his decision not to seek a U.S. Senate seat.
"My family has been a critical part of this process, and I want to thank my wife, Anna, for her amazing support. We are the proud parents of two young children, so, like many Texas families, we must consider what kind of state and country they will inherit. I’m convinced I can help shape that brighter future, and I promise to continue standing up for my family, and yours."
Castro's decision means El Paso Congressman Beto O'Rourke is likely to be the Democratic party candidate to challenge Cruz next fall.
Analysts say, although wounded by his refusal to endorse Donald Trump at last summer's Republican convention, Cruz remains a heavy favorite to win re-election next fall, and any challenger would face a daunting task to gain traction against him in what remains a Republican dominated state.
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