Mark Teixeira Enters Political Arena, Announces Congressional Run

Former Major League Baseball player Mark Teixeira has announced his candidacy for Congress in the 2026 midterm elections. He will be running as a Republican.

Teixeira will be seeking to represent the 21st Congressional District. This district encompasses portions of the San Antonio and Austin suburbs, along with a significant part of the Hill Country. Cities such as Fredericksburg and Kerrville are also included within the district's boundaries.

In a statement, Teixeira expressed his commitment to conservative principles and his love for both Texas and the United States. He stated his readiness to advocate for the values that he believes contribute to the strength of Texas and the exceptionalism of America.

Teixeira's professional baseball career began with the Texas Rangers in 2003. During his time with the Rangers, he earned an All-Star selection and two Gold Glove awards for his defensive skills at first base. He was later traded to the Atlanta Braves and subsequently played for the Los Angeles Angels.

In 2009, Teixeira joined the New York Yankees, where he spent the remainder of his career. During his tenure with the Yankees, he won a World Series title, earned two more All-Star selections, and added three more Gold Glove awards to his resume.

Following his retirement from baseball, Teixeira relocated to Central Texas in 2021. He currently resides there with his wife and their three children.

Teixeira will face at least one opponent in the Republican primary. Daniel Betts, who was the Republican nominee for Travis County district attorney in 2024, is also running. The current incumbent, GOP Rep. Chip Roy, is not seeking re-election and is instead running in the Republican primary for Texas Attorney General.