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HARLINGEN — Texas Democrats are eyeing a chance to regain control of a state House seat in the Rio Grande Valley by targeting the incumbent Republican over her stance on private school vouchers.

Jonathan Gracia, a former justice of the peace and attorney, is running to reclaim state House District 37 from incumbent Republican Rep. Janie Lopez, positioning himself as a strong opponent of school vouchers.

Both parties have zeroed in on this closely watched race, with Texas Democratic Chair Gilberto Hinojosa expressing confidence in Gracia’s chances of winning back the seat.

The battle for District 37, which includes parts of Cameron and Willacy counties, is particularly significant as it could impact the fate of controversial voucher legislation in Texas.

While the House’s overall control is not at stake, pivotal races like this one will determine the passage of key legislation, including the highly contentious voucher program championed by Governor Greg Abbott.

Gracia and Lopez differ sharply on the issue of school vouchers, with Gracia criticizing Lopez’s support for diverting funds away from public education, an issue he deems crucial for the community’s future.

To read more about this hotly contested race in the Rio Grande Valley, click here.