The University and West Campus area will have a new representative: U.S. Rep. Greg Casar. Democratic candidate Casar defeated Republican nominee Lauren B. Peña for UT’s congressional seat on Tuesday.
At the time of writing, Casar won 86.1% of the vote over Peña’s 13.9%. He will serve a two-year term, during which he can introduce bills and amendments, serve on committees and work on the federal budget.
This marks Casar’s third term in Congress. He previously represented U.S. House District 35, which included part of San Antonio and East Austin before Texas’ 2025 redistricting session. His new constituency no longer includes San Antonio.
Casar’s platform centered around addressing economic issues for working families, including healthcare prices, workers’ rights and affordable housing.
“Today, too many Texans are struggling to afford the basic necessities while big corporations make record profits,” Casar wrote on his website. “Congress must ensure that the ultra rich pay their fair share in taxes and contribute to the schools, roads, and community services that we all use.”
K-12 and higher education issues were also part of his campaign. According to his website, he supports canceling student debt and reducing students’ financial burden. Casar is a co-sponsor for the College for All Act, which advocates for free tuition across community colleges and public universities.
He also currently serves as the vice ranking member of the Committee on Education and Labor in the 119th Congress and could become vice chair if Democrats gain a House majority.
“I’m working for students by pushing for policies that increase funding for education at all levels, support our teachers and school staff, and ensure that every student can receive a high-quality education,” Casar wrote on his website. “We also must focus on investing in and supporting our teachers and school staff.”
Casar won the seat that was previously held by U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-37. Doggett did not run for re-election due to redistricting in Texas.
Casar will begin his term in January 2027 at the start of the 120th Congress.
