Texas Democrats are expressing growing concerns about a potential primary battle between incumbent Representatives Lloyd Doggett and Greg Casar as Republicans advance a congressional map that would place the two lawmakers in direct competition. The proposed map, which aims to secure five congressional seats for Texas Republicans, merges the districts of Doggett and Casar into one, centered around the Austin area.
A head-to-head contest would see 78-year-old Doggett, who previously urged former President Biden to withdraw from the presidential race last year, facing off against 36-year-old Casar, the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. In a surprising twist, Doggett has suggested that Casar should run in the newly drawn 35th district, a move perceived by some within the party as a concession before the new map is finalized by the state legislature.
Concerns Over Party Resources and Unity
Democratic leaders worry that a contentious primary could benefit Republicans and divert critical resources from other campaigns across Texas. In an interview with The Hill on March 15, Doggett stated, “It’s certainly a battle that is unfortunate to divide Democrats at a time when we need to be united against Trump.” He further challenged Casar to “explain to voters why I should be ousted and why he is surrendering the district to Trump.”
Despite his concerns about a divisive race, Doggett indicated his intention to utilize his substantial campaign war chest of $6.2 million for his reelection. “That money was raised for my reelection and I plan to use it as necessary,” he affirmed. The dynamic intensified earlier this week when Doggett claimed the new 35th district would be predominantly based in San Antonio, rather than Austin.
Casar’s team, however, disputes this characterization. His chief of staff, Stephanie Trinh, communicated to supporters that Casar’s priority lies in combating the redistricting efforts and supporting state legislators resisting Republican changes. Trinh criticized Doggett for sending his email without consulting Casar’s team, stating, “There’s no reason it would make sense for Greg to run in that district.” Casar’s current district encompasses parts of both the San Antonio metro area and Austin.
Redistricting Implications and Community Concerns
The proposed map indicates that the new 37th district, which Doggett would represent, would be more favorable for Democrats, while the redrawn 35th district would lean conservative, including less than 10 percent of Casar’s current constituents. This shift would see the new 37th district include approximately two-thirds of Doggett’s current constituents alongside a significant portion of Casar’s.
Critics have pointed out Doggett’s long tenure in Congress, having represented various districts over his 30-year career. Veteran Democratic strategist Chuck Rocha highlighted the irony of Doggett’s position, given his previous calls for Biden to reconsider his candidacy. “This would be an easy way for Lloyd to step down,” Rocha remarked, reflecting on the frustrations among younger Democrats regarding the leadership transition.
As discussions continue, some activists have called for Doggett to heed his own advice about generational change. David Hogg, a prominent Democratic activist, stated, “Thanks to Governor Abbott being a feckless Trump lackey, two incredible progressives might have to fight over the Austin seat.” He urged Doggett to “pass the torch” to Casar, emphasizing the need for new leadership.
Doggett, for his part, maintains that his opposition to Biden’s candidacy was not solely about age but rather concerns over electability and performance against Trump. He argues that the new 35th district provides a unique opportunity for Casar due to its significant Latino population. “He is the incumbent. He has the power to bring all of his talent and his resources to bear on this district,” Doggett asserted.
As the political landscape evolves in Texas, the potential clash between two prominent Democrats underscores ongoing challenges within the party. With the new districts poised to reshape the electoral map, the coming months will be critical as candidates navigate this contentious environment and strive to maintain Democratic unity ahead of the elections.
