Former New York Yankees star Mark Teixeira is stepping up to the political plate. He’s announced his candidacy for Congress in Texas’ 21st Congressional District.
The three-time All-Star and 2009 World Series champ wants to succeed outgoing Representative Chip Roy. He’s aligning himself with the conservative movement and pledging to push an America First agenda.
With a decorated 14-year MLB career behind him, Teixeira now aims to make his mark in Washington, D.C. He’s focusing on issues like border security, energy independence, and economic growth.
Mark Teixeira’s Shift from Baseball to Politics
Teixeira, 45, built his reputation on discipline and performance in Major League Baseball. Over his career, he hit more than 400 home runs and earned five Gold Glove Awards.
He became known as one of the most reliable two-way first basemen of his era. His crowning achievement came in 2009, helping the Yankees win their 27th World Series title just months after signing a massive eight-year, $180 million contract.
Now, nearly a decade since hanging up his cleats, Teixeira’s setting his sights on political service. He hopes to channel his leadership and competitive spirit into Congress.
Returning Home to Texas
After retiring in 2016, Teixeira settled in Greenwich, Connecticut. He spent time on philanthropy and supported community projects there.
Eventually, he returned to his Texas roots with his wife and kids. Public records show he last voted in Connecticut in 2020, but his registration there became inactive in 2022, clearing the way for his political life in Texas.
The 21st Congressional District covers parts of San Antonio, Austin, and the Texas Hill Country. It’s considered a safely Republican seat, which gives Teixeira a strong platform for his first run at public office.
The Political Landscape and Campaign Priorities
Teixeira’s announcement follows Representative Chip Roy’s decision to run for Texas attorney general. That move leaves a coveted opening in Congress.
Teixeira calls himself a “lifelong conservative.” He’s positioned himself firmly within the GOP’s America First wing, promising to back policies that match former President Donald Trump’s platform.
Core Issues Teixeira Wants to Tackle
In his campaign launch, Teixeira called out several key priorities:
- Border Security: He wants to strengthen the U.S.-Mexico border to boost national safety and fight illegal immigration.
- Economic Growth: He’s supporting job creation, entrepreneurship, and a strong Texas economy.
- Energy Independence: He’s pushing for domestic energy production to cut reliance on foreign fuel.
- Community Support: He backs law enforcement, farmers, teachers, and working families.
These talking points keep him closely aligned with much of the Republican base. In this district, conservative values usually dominate the conversation.
The Road Ahead for Teixeira’s Campaign
The 21st District race will likely draw several GOP contenders. Still, Teixeira’s name recognition, celebrity status, and deep baseball ties could give him an edge for the nomination.
His career in pro sports honed his ability to perform under pressure and work as part of a team. He believes those qualities will help him in Congress.
But professional success on the diamond doesn’t always mean political victory. Teixeira needs to convince voters that his experience, values, and ideas make him the right successor to Chip Roy in this deeply conservative district.
From Stadium Lights to Political Spotlight
Mark Teixeira’s journey from Yankee Stadium to a congressional campaign highlights a broader trend. More and more, athletes are making the leap into politics.
He brings a competitive spirit and a disciplined approach. Teixeira seems genuinely driven by public service, and he’s betting that Texas voters will find his record compelling.
Now, he’s stepping up to bat in a whole new game. This one’s about policy and persuasion, not bats and gloves.
Here is the source article for this story: Former Yankees First Baseman Mark Teixeira Says He Will Run for Congress
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