Scrambled Race to Replace U.S. Rep. Ruben Hinojosa

Feb. 16, 2016 PHARR, TX — Nine candidates filled the stage at a Monday night debate in the contest to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Rubén Hinojosa, an Edinburg Democrat. But the evening's lone personal shot was directed at the retiring incumbent rather than anyone's competition.

“I have the charisma to be able to get this done,” said law student and Democratic hopeful Ruben Ramirez. “Part of the reason we have failed in Washington — and when I say ‘we,’ I mean our current congressman — is because he lacks that charisma.”

That was the closest thing to mudslinging at a forum that focused mostly on infrastructure, education, economic, border and drug policy. And with the exception of marijuana legalization, the Democrats agreed with each other.

An open-seat U.S. House race is sure to draw a packed field, and nine candidates — six Democrats and three Republicans — are aiming to succeed the 10-term congressman.

https://www.texastribune.org/2016/02/16/scrambled-race-replace-hinojosa