Former MLB Slugger Mark Teixeira to Run for Congress in Texas
Mark Teixeira, the former MLB star known for his impressive career with teams like the Texas Rangers and New York Yankees, has declared his intention to enter the political arena. On Thursday, Teixeira announced that he will be running for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives during the 2026 midterm elections. His campaign will be conducted under the Republican banner in the 21st Congressional District, which encompasses parts of the suburbs of San Antonio and Austin, as well as a significant portion of the scenic Hill Country, including the cities of Fredericksburg and Kerrville.
In a statement regarding his candidacy, Teixeira expressed his dedication to his home state and his conservative values, saying, “As a proud Texan and lifelong conservative who loves our country, I’m ready to fight for the principles that make Texas strong and America exceptional.”
Major League Baseball Career
Teixeira’s journey in professional baseball began in the 2003 season when he made his debut with the Texas Rangers. Over the course of his four seasons with the team, he was recognized for his exceptional performance, making an All-Star Game appearance and winning two Gold Glove awards for his defensive skills at first base.
In 2007, Teixeira was traded to the Atlanta Braves, where he continued to showcase his talents for parts of two seasons. After brief periods with the Los Angeles Angels and later the New York Yankees, he spent the last eight years of his MLB career in New York. During his time with the Yankees, he secured a World Series title, participated in two additional All-Star games, and garnered three more Gold Glove awards.
Life After Baseball
Since concluding his exceptional baseball career, Teixeira returned to Texas in 2021. He now resides in Central Texas with his wife and their three children, marking a new chapter in his life as he transitions from sports to family life and now politics.
Political Landscape in the 21st District
As Teixeira prepares to launch his campaign, he will face competition for the Republican nomination. Among those running is Daniel Betts, who previously served as the Republican nominee for Travis County district attorney in 2024. The current representative for the 21st Congressional District, Republican Chip Roy, has opted not to seek re-election and is instead running for Texas Attorney General.
Table of Major Events in Mark Teixeira’s Career
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2003 | Major League debut with Texas Rangers |
| 2007 | Traded to Atlanta Braves |
| 2009 | Signed with New York Yankees |
| 2009-2016 | Won World Series and multiple awards with Yankees |
| 2021 | Returned to Texas, focusing on family and politics |
As the election season approaches, Teixeira’s candidacy is sure to attract considerable attention, both for his sports legacy and his dedication to public service as he aims to represent the interests of his constituents in the Texas Congress.
