What to know about the democratic candidates in the Tx House District 37 runoff

Two Democratic candidates, Esmeralda Cantu-Castle and Oziel Ochoa Jr., are vying for the Texas House District 37 seat in a runoff election on Tuesday. Cantu-Castle, a resident of the lower Rio Grande Valley for over 20 years, announced her campaign in October 2025 after her daughter, U.S. Navy sailor Anelina Resendiz, was killed near her Virginia base in summer 2025. Her platform includes mental health resources, protecting South Padre Island’s nature preserves and beaches, supporting families in need, and advocating for veterans. She is in her final year at Mitchell Hamline School of Law and emphasizes her legal education as preparation for fighting social justice issues in the Valley. Oziel Ochoa Jr., a Harlingen native, entered the race in October 2025 with a background in public education spanning 17 years. He holds degrees in Kinesiology, Educational Leadership, and completed the superintendent program at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2024. Currently serving as Director of Special Education, Ochoa’s campaign focuses on education, public safety, veterans’ rights, women’s rights, and economic growth for South Texas families. Neither candidate secured a majority in the March primary, with Ochoa receiving 46% of the vote and Cantu-Castle earning 32%. The runoff winner will face Republican incumbent Janie Lopez in the general election. District 37 covers all of Willacy County and a majority of Cameron County, making the race significant for the region’s political landscape. Both candidates have highlighted their personal and professional experiences to connect with voters. Cantu-Castle’s legal studies and family background in military service contrast with Ochoa’s extensive education leadership career. The outcome of this runoff will determine the Democratic nominee for a seat currently held by Lopez since 2017.