Tensions are escalating among Texas Democrats as a proposed congressional map threatens to create a primary battle between Representatives Lloyd Doggett and Greg Casar. This conflict arises from the new redistricting plan, which positions both incumbents in a single district around Austin, potentially leading to a contentious election in 2024.
The new map, set to benefit Texas Republicans by adding five congressional seats, merges Doggett’s 37th District with Casar’s current 35th District. This scenario would pit the seasoned 78-year-old Doggett against the 36-year-old Casar, who currently chairs the Congressional Progressive Caucus. Despite the looming conflict, Doggett has publicly urged Casar to run for the newly drawn 35th District, a move perceived by many as a signal of surrender before the map’s official approval.
Concerns are mounting among Democrats regarding the implications of an intra-party struggle. Many believe such a primary could drain vital resources and distract from efforts to combat Republican candidates statewide next year. In an interview with The Hill, Doggett expressed his dismay at the prospect of division within the party, stating, “It’s certainly a battle that is unfortunate to divide Democrats at a time when we need to be united against Trump.”
Doggett’s situation is complicated by his substantial campaign war chest. The congressman possesses approximately $6.2 million in funds, which he intends to utilize strategically for his reelection campaign. “That money was raised for my reelection and I plan to use it as necessary,” he affirmed.
The controversy intensified earlier this week when Doggett claimed that the new 35th District would be centered in San Antonio rather than Austin, arguing that Casar could connect with the area’s significant Hispanic population, which stands at around 57 percent. Conversely, Casar’s chief of staff, Stephanie Trinh, countered that Doggett’s assertions were made without consulting Casar or his team. She emphasized that Casar’s current focus is on opposing the redistricting efforts and supporting state legislators resisting Republican advances.
The proposed map indicates a significant shift in the political landscape. The new 37th District is expected to lean more Democratic, while the 35th District is projected to become more conservative, incorporating less than 10 percent of Casar’s current constituents. This new dynamic raises questions about how both candidates will appeal to their respective bases.
Casar’s supporters have noted that Doggett has been in Congress for 30 years, representing various districts throughout his career. Many Democratic strategists have expressed frustration with Doggett’s insistence on continuing to run, particularly in light of calls for new leadership. Veteran strategist Chuck Rocha remarked on the irony of Doggett’s current position, given his past criticisms of President Joe Biden regarding age and fitness for office. “This would be an easy way for Lloyd to step down,” Rocha stated.
As the redistricting debate unfolds, age and generational leadership within the party remain hot topics. Activists like David Hogg, founder of the group Leaders We Deserve, have urged Doggett to pass the torch, highlighting the stark age difference between the candidates. Hogg noted, “Greg Casar is 36 and Lloyd Doggett is 78. This isn’t complicated; Lloyd should take his own advice and pass the torch.”
In response to claims regarding his motives, Doggett emphasized that his critiques of Biden were rooted in electability rather than age. He maintains that the new 35th District provides an opportunity for Casar to leverage his talents and resources effectively. “He has the power to bring all of his talent and his resources to bear on this district,” Doggett asserted.
Despite the tensions, Casar’s allies in the Latino community are prepared to defend him against any suggestion that he should abandon his current district. “Suggesting Greg Casar abandon Austin for another district just because of its Hispanic population is insulting and out of touch,” stated a Latino Democratic strategist.
As discussions continue, the dynamics within the Texas Democratic Party illustrate the broader challenges facing the party as it seeks to navigate the complexities of redistricting and the need for unity against Republican opposition. The decisions made in the coming weeks will likely have significant ramifications for both candidates and the party’s future in Texas.
