This is a press release issued by educator and No Border Wall activist Tannya Benavides, who in June announced her run against District 28 Congressman Henry Cuellar. The release, which followed Jessica Cisneros’ announcement that she, too, will challenge Cuellar in the 2022 Democratic primary, was released Thursday.
“Our campaign welcomes the news that another progressive challenger in South Texas has set their intention to seek political office. Since our campaign launch in June and in the months we spent in preparation for this race, we made it our goal to uplift all voices and represent all residents in our district. For far too long, South Texans have been sidelined in the political process by representatives who do not understand the everyday experiences of working-class families or share their community’s interests.
“Time and time again, we have witnessed how voices from across the political spectrum have been denied a seat at the table by Representative Henry Cuellar while his office has granted unlimited access only to his largest donors and special interests groups.
“Rep. Cuellar, it is time for everyone to have a seat at the table. Our campaign remains steadfast in its determination to build a long-lasting movement towards justice, and we urge more young Tejanos to challenge career politicians up and down the ballot.
“Benavides is determined to set forth sweeping policy changes including Medicare For All, advancing Green New Deal legislation, immigration reform, worker’s rights, investment in infrastructure, protections for seasonal migrant workers, educational justice, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ rights.
“In the spirit of goodwill for the progressive movement, we will continue to reach out to Ms. Cisneros to discuss the most pressing issues that impact the residents of South Texas.”
(Tannya Benavides is a graduate of Texas State University and Johns Hopkins University.)
