Eric Flores, a former federal prosecutor and Army veteran, has officially launched his campaign for the Republican nomination in Texas’ 34th Congressional District, a key battleground for the 2026 midterms. The district, which President Donald Trump won by five points in the 2024 election, is among the National Republican Congressional Committee’s top targets for flipping Democratic control. Flores, a Spanish-speaking candidate from the Rio Grande Valley, has a background in border security and legal enforcement, positioning himself as a strong contender to challenge Democratic Rep. Vicente Gonzalez.
Flores’ campaign highlights his experience, including service in the U.S. Army and the Texas Army National Guard, where he commanded soldiers along the U.S.-Mexico border. He also served as a municipal judge and is currently a partner at a legal firm focusing on municipal and school district defense. His campaign promises to address community concerns and prioritize conservative policies, aligning with Trump’s strategy of challenging Democrats in key districts.
The 34th District, which includes Brownsville and parts of McAllen, saw a significant shift in 2024, with Trump winning by nearly five points. However, Democrats retained the district in the Senate race, with former Rep. Colin Allred defeating Sen. Ted Cruz by six points. Flores faces incumbent Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, who has held the seat since 2013 and narrowly won the 2024 election with a margin of 2.5 points. The race is seen as a critical test for the GOP’s strategy to regain control of the House.
Flores’ campaign also emphasizes his legal experience, including his role in prosecuting cartel-connected and human trafficking operations, and securing the conviction of a top-wanted fugitive. His campaign biography notes that he has received recognition for his work, including U.S. Attorney’s Awards. With several other Republicans expected to enter the GOP primary, Flores is considered a major contender in the race to challenge Gonzalez and shift control of the district to the Republican Party.