Mark Teixeira to Texas Dems: Improve Policies After Redistricting

Former New York Yankees slugger Mark Teixeira has traded the baseball diamond for the political arena. He just announced his candidacy for Texas’ 21st Congressional District.

Teixeira, a three-time All-Star and 2009 World Series champ, is jumping into politics at a pretty pivotal moment. Current Representative Chip Roy is leaving the seat to run for Texas Attorney General.

With a platform rooted in conservative values, Teixeira wants to make a mark off the field. He says he’s determined to protect Texas priorities and connect with voters in his district.

From World Series Glory to the Campaign Trail

Teixeira, now 45, retired from Major League Baseball after a long, impressive run. He played for the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels, and New York Yankees.

Over 14 seasons, he hit 409 home runs and racked up 1,298 RBIs. He also earned five Gold Glove Awards, cementing his place as one of the best first basemen of his era.

Now, he’s turning to public service in Washington. He says he’s motivated by the idea that conservative leadership can get things done, both locally and nationally.

Stepping In After Chip Roy’s Departure

Teixeira got his political opening when Rep. Chip Roy decided not to seek re-election. Roy’s aiming for the attorney general’s office instead.

This leaves an open seat in a district that’s historically leaned Republican. Teixeira hopes to keep it that way.

The state’s new congressional map adds five Republican-leaning districts. Teixeira has spoken out in favor of this change.

Backing the New Texas Congressional Map

Teixeira has been clear about his support for Texas’ updated districting plan. Some Democrats have criticized it, saying it hurts electoral fairness.

Teixeira brushed off those concerns. He suggested Democratic leaders should “have better policies” instead of objecting to the redistricting results.

He’s made it pretty clear that he thinks good policy—not procedural changes—leads to political wins.

A Critique of Progressive Governance

Teixeira has argued that progressive policies just don’t work in cities run by Democratic mayors. He points to crime, economic instability, and infrastructure issues as proof.

This argument lines up with the Republican message going into the next election cycle. He’s emphasizing the differences between conservative-led and progressive-led cities.

Platform Built on Conservative Values

Teixeira’s campaign focuses on a set of conservative priorities he says will strengthen both Texas and the country. Here’s what he’s putting forward:

• Securing the border to boost national security and manage illegal immigration.
• Lowering taxes to spur economic growth and help working families.
• Shrinking government to cut waste and make things run more smoothly.
• Protecting life as part of his pro-life beliefs.
• Defending Second Amendment rights to protect individual freedoms.

Championing Family and Faith

Teixeira often says his political views are meant to help American families and strengthen community values. He describes the people of Texas’ 21st District as deeply patriotic, proud of their state, and committed to their faith.

He believes they want to preserve the traditions that make Texas unique.

Praising Trump’s Legacy

The former MLB star hasn’t been shy about praising Donald Trump’s time in office. He points to Trump’s record as evidence that conservative policies can drive economic growth, strengthen the military, and keep the country secure.

By aligning himself with Trump’s approach, Teixeira seems to be aiming for strong support from the Republican base in Texas and beyond.

From First Base to First-Time Candidate

Mark Teixeira might be new to politics, but he’s no stranger to big moments or pressure. His years in professional sports taught him leadership, discipline, and the value of teamwork.

He figures those same qualities could help him on Capitol Hill. Teixeira anchored championship lineups for years, and now he’s aiming to bring that steady presence to Congress.

He wants to advocate for his district with the same drive that fueled his play on the field. Will his athletic fame actually translate to votes and political wins?

That’s still up in the air. But Teixeira’s leap from the Yankees’ clubhouse to the political arena is already turning heads, not just in Texas but all over the country.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Mark Teixeira has a message for Texas Dems after redistricting: ‘Have better policies’