LAREDO—Webb County Judge Tano Tijerina, once a member of the Democrat Party, has announced that he is switching parties and becoming a Republican.
“My decision to switch parties wasn’t made lightly,” said Tijerina. “For years, I’ve watched the national Democrat Party drift further left, embracing policies that don’t reflect the values of our community. This is not about politics; it’s about staying true to my principles and the people of South Texas. The party left me, and the people of South Texas, behind.”
Tijerina made the announcement during an appearance on Fox and Friends Tuesday morning.
After much thought, prayer, and conversations with my family and friends, I have made the decision to switch to the Republican party.
Our shared values here in South Texas — hard work, faith, family, and freedom — are no longer pillars in the Democrat party and I want to be… pic.twitter.com/OJzGT0uVW1
— Judge Tano Tijerina (@JudgeTano) December 10, 2024
Republican Party of Texas Chairman Abraham George welcomed Tijerina with open arms, highlighting his leadership as a county judge.
“On behalf of the Republican Party of Texas, it is with great pride and enthusiasm that I welcome you to our party. Your decision to join the Republican Party is a reflection of your dedication to principled governance and your commitment to serving the people of Webb County with integrity and steadfast resolve,” George wrote in an open letter to Tijerina.
Webb County, which includes the City of Laredo, is historically a Democrat stronghold. However, during the most recent election, the county flipped and voted for President Donald Trump—the first time in a century that Webb County supported a Republican presidential candidate.
Tijerina’s decision reflects a broader political shift occurring in South Texas. In November, 12 of the state’s 14 border counties voted Republican.
