Gonzales launches re-election campaign

McALLEN — State Rep. Veronica Gonzales launched her re-election campaign Tuesday night with a party at the International Museum of Art and Science.

The 42-year-old McAllen lawyer, who is seeking her third term in the Legislature, is currently running unopposed in the March Democratic primary but could face an opponent in the general election next November.

Javier Villalobos, a 41-year-old McAllen lawyer, announced last month his intention run as a Republican candidate for District 41.

“The lines were drawn in this district to make it a 50-50 split,” Gonzales said, referring to the GOP-led plan to create the district in 2000.

“But people here are independent and are going to vote for the candidate that’ll do a good job.”

In the seven years since District 41 was redrawn, no Republicans have been elected to the seat.

Villalobos, who on Tuesday said he would campaign on a pro-business platform, was critical of Gonzales’ record.

“There’s a lot of thing we could do to help small business, and I don’t think we’re getting that help right now,” he said.

Gonzales, addressing that criticism, said she was proud of her record on small business issues, citing her support for a business tax reform plan.

“Socially, I’m moderate to liberal, and I’m fiscally conservative,” she said. “But you can’t help business at the expense of the poor.”

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James Osborne covers McAllen and general assignments for The Monitor. You can reach him at (956) 683-4428.