Chip Roy, former chief of staff to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, announced his campaign for Congress Wednesday morning.
Roy is running to represent Texas’ 21st Congressional District and is attempting to replace U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith (R–San Antonio), who is retiring after 16 terms in the House.
In addition to being an accomplished attorney, Roy has served in numerous public leadership positions, including first assistant attorney general of Texas and senior advisor to former Gov. Rick Perry and U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. Most recently, Roy served as director of the Center for Tenth Amendment Action at the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF).
“Chip is a fearless and committed champion for the values that keep Texas strong, free, and safe,” Cruz said after Roy accepted his position at TPPF. “As one who had the honor of helping launch that center, it is critical to have someone lead the effort who possesses both a strong knowledge of the Constitution and an acute awareness of how the federal government steps beyond its limits on a daily basis.”
Roy enters a crowded campaign field, with 10 other Republicans already competing for Smith’s seat. Candidates include Texas State Rep. Jason Isaac (R–Dripping Springs), former U.S. Rep. Francisco “Quico” Canseco of San Antonio, and ex-Bexar County GOP Chairman Robert Stovall.
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee has also added TX-21 to its target list for 2018, making it an important contest for both parties.
