Democratic Rep. Mark Veasey of Texas has ended his bid for Tarrant County judge, announcing Monday that he wants to devote his final year in Congress to his current duties rather than pursuing another office next year.
Veasey, a seventh-term congressman representing a Fort Worth-based district reshaped by Republican-led redistricting, had declared his candidacy for the county executive position just last week. He now plans to focus on his congressional responsibilities through his retirement at the end of 2026.
“Right now, my responsibility is to stay in Congress and continue the fight where the stakes are highest, holding Donald Trump accountable, pushing back against MAGA extremism, and defending the democratic values our community depends on,” Veasey said in a statement Monday. “That is where I believe I can do the most good, and that is the work I intend to continue until the end of my term.”
With the House closely divided—220 Republicans, 213 Democrats, and two Democratic vacancies—Veasey’s presence is particularly significant. Running for a local office could have conflicted with his congressional duties during a critical period.
Former Rep. Colin Allred, a Democrat seeking election in Texas’ new 33rd District, praised Veasey’s decision, saying, “Marc Veasey has been a tireless champion for North Texas families and a respected leader who has always put service above self. His decision reflects the same thoughtfulness and deep commitment to our community that have marked every step of his public service.”