Susan Narvaiz, who was clobbered in three races for Congress by Democrat Lloyd Bentsen, is trying again in 2018, but in another district, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
The former San Marcos Mayor is the first major Republican to announce her candidacy to succeed the retiring Republican Lamar Smith in the 21st District, which stretches from Alamo Heights up I-35 to the University of Texas campus in Austin.
"Our country is at a crossroads and now more than ever, we need strong leaders who are not afraid to fight for conservative values," Narvaiz said. "Through my experience as mayor of one of America’s fastest growing cities, I have balanced budgets and held the line on taxes. As a small business owner, I’ve helped people find good paying jobs. I will bring my common sense conservatism to Washington."
Smith's sudden retirement announced last week has left the future of the once solidly Republican district in doubt.
Redistricting designed to protect other Republican districts, which was done with the belief that Smith, who has always run strongly in his frequently redrawn district, would seek re-election through the end of the decade has left the 21st more Democratic than ever, and several Democrats have already announced their candidacy.
IMAGE; NARVAIZ CAMPAIGN