The stage is set for an exciting runoff election in San Antonio as former Texas Secretary of State Rolando Pablos and former Under Secretary of the United States Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones prepare to face off for the city’s mayoral seat. The runoff, scheduled for June 7, 2025, comes after no candidate secured a majority in the first round of voting. The nonpartisan election will see both candidates with deep and varied political experience, adding an intriguing dynamic to the race.
Rolando Pablos, a seasoned political figure, served as Texas Secretary of State under Republican Governors Greg Abbott and Rick Perry. During his tenure, Pablos focused on issues such as economic development, international trade, and voter outreach. His leadership in the state government and experience in international business have made him a prominent figure in Texas politics, especially with his emphasis on economic growth and public service. Pablos’s background is expected to appeal to voters seeking experience in governance and leadership at the state and federal levels.
On the other side of the race, Gina Ortiz Jones, who has a background in both military and public service, has gained recognition for her work as a former Under Secretary of the U.S. Air Force under President Joe Biden. Jones is also a well-known political figure in Texas, having run for U.S. Congress in District 23 on multiple occasions. A member of the Democratic Party, Jones has made a name for herself with a focus on issues like military service, veterans’ affairs, and progressive social policies. Her candidacy in the mayoral race is expected to resonate with voters who are looking for a fresh perspective and a commitment to expanding social programs in the community.
The runoff election, being nonpartisan, reflects the growing trend of local elections in Texas where candidates from different political backgrounds seek to represent diverse constituencies. Both candidates have emphasized their deep commitment to San Antonio’s future, including its economic development, public services, and efforts to tackle pressing issues like housing, public safety, and infrastructure. Pablos and Ortiz Jones have each presented themselves as candidates capable of uniting the city across party lines, aiming to build consensus on key policies while pushing their individual visions for the city.
The race has already been marked by spirited campaigning, with both candidates focusing on the city’s most pressing concerns. Pablos has framed his campaign around his ability to bring business-oriented solutions and his experience in managing large-scale governmental and economic initiatives. Meanwhile, Jones has focused on a platform of inclusivity and accessibility, highlighting her work with military families and her commitment to addressing the needs of underserved communities in San Antonio.
Early voting for the runoff election began on May 27 and runs through June 3, giving voters several days to cast their ballots ahead of the June 7 election date. With San Antonio being the second-largest city in Texas, the mayoral race is drawing significant attention, both locally and statewide. Voter turnout is expected to be high, as the candidates’ contrasting backgrounds and policy priorities provide voters with clear options for the city’s leadership in the coming years.
The San Antonio mayoral election has become a focal point for discussions about the future direction of the city, with both candidates vying to shape its economic development, public policy, and cultural identity. As the runoff approaches, the city is bracing for a final push of political ads, debates, and public outreach designed to sway undecided voters and solidify support for the candidates.
Both Pablos and Ortiz Jones have long histories of public service, but they approach governance from different angles. The outcome of this election is likely to have a significant impact on San Antonio’s trajectory in the years to come, influencing decisions on everything from housing development to public safety initiatives. As the city prepares to head to the polls on June 7, all eyes will be on this high-stakes race.
