From Texastribune · · 2m
Young Texas Mayor Struggles to Support Paxton
Erik Gomez, 26, faces tough choices after Republican primary loss in Sabinal.
In brief
Erik Gomez, 26, faces tough choices after Republican primary loss in Sabinal. Erik Gomez, the youngest mayor in Texas, is trying to support Ken Paxton after losing his primary to U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. Originally reported by Texastribune.
Erik Gomez's political rise
Erik Gomez, 26, became Texas's youngest mayor after winning a local election in May 2026.
Gomez supports Cornyn campaign
Gomez helped U.S. Sen. John Cornyn win the Republican primary against Attorney General Ken Paxton.
Cornyn's primary loss
Cornyn lost the Republican primary to Paxton by a 27-point margin in May 2026.
Gomez's dilemma
Gomez wants to support Paxton but has not yet decided how to vote in the general election.
Latino voter bloc
Latino Texans are a key Republican voting bloc in Texas with conservative leanings.
Paxton's scandals
Paxton faced impeachment over allegations of abusing his office as Texas attorney general.
Gomez's campaign efforts
Gomez secured a $50,000 grant to fix a playground in Sabinal after becoming mayor.
National Night Out event
Gomez hosted a National Night Out event with raffles for toys and bikes in Sabinal.
Gomez's political identity
Gomez identifies as a lifelong Republican but has seen many friends vote for Democrats.
Republican unity challenge
Top Republicans tried to unite behind Paxton but faced internal divisions over his leadership.
Gomez's stance on racism
Gomez criticized Republicans for not condemning racist social media posts by Bo French.
Gomez's vote for French's opponent
Gomez voted for Jon Rosenthal, the opponent of Bo French, in the Republican primary.
Gomez's political future
Gomez remains a loyal supporter of President Donald Trump and Governor Greg Abbott.
Latino voter concerns
Latino voters are concerned about high costs, immigration policies, and economic issues.
Gomez's political challenges
Gomez faces challenges with limited funds to fix potholes and other town infrastructure.
Gomez's political identity
Gomez considers himself a moderate Republican focused on affordability and safety.
What it means
Erik Gomez, the youngest mayor in Texas, is trying to support Ken Paxton after losing his primary to U.S. Sen. John Cornyn.
