The political landscape of Texas is being reshaped by an urgent issue: water. Nowhere is this more evident than in Corpus Christi, where the looming water crisis has become a defining factor in the race for Texas House District 34. This coastal city, known for its scenic beauty, is now grappling with severe drought restrictions and industrial water usage debates, making the upcoming election a critical moment for the region’s future.

Governor Greg Abbott has even suggested that a state takeover might be necessary to address the city’s water challenges. Local leaders have faced criticism for their handling of the crisis, particularly their policies allowing industrial plants to use large amounts of water during restrictions. As the election approaches, the race for Texas House District 34 is emerging as a key battleground in the broader debate over water policy in Texas.

The Political Landscape of Texas House District 34

Texas House District 34, which encompasses half of Corpus Christi, has historically been a Democratic stronghold. However, the political tides shifted in 2024 when Republican Denise Villalobos, a former school board trustee and oil and gas project manager, flipped the seat by more than 10 points. This victory marked a significant extension of the Trump-fueled wave among South Texas Latino voters, as Trump won the district by just 2 points.

Now, Villalobos faces a formidable challenge from Democratic contender Stephanie Guerrero Sáenz in the upcoming election. With about three-quarters of the district’s constituents being Hispanic, and polling data suggesting a shift in Latino voter preferences, this race is crucial for both parties. Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston, emphasizes the importance of this district for Democrats: “If Democrats are going to take back the Texas House, they have to flip seats like this.”

The Funding Battle: Campaign Finances and Political Support

The financial backing for both candidates underscores the high stakes of this election. In 2024, Republicans poured over $1 million into Villalobos’ campaign, with significant contributions from GOP and business interest groups. This cycle, Villalobos has raised just over $200,000, including contributions from Texans for Lawsuit Reform, the Texas Oil & Gas Association PAC, and Koch Industries PAC.

In contrast, Guerrero Sáenz’s campaign has been buoyed by Democratic groups, with the House Democratic Campaign Committee and the Lone Star Project providing substantial support. Despite raising less than Villalobos, Guerrero Sáenz’s campaign is gaining momentum, fueled by the urgency of the water crisis and the shifting political landscape.

Water Policy: The Central Issue in the Election

Both candidates have made water policy a pillar of their campaigns. Villalobos highlights her efforts in the 89th legislative session, including securing $46 million in state support for water-related projects. She has also proposed legislation to centralize control of local water supply infrastructure, acknowledging the need for a coordinated approach: “There’s so many different water entities and no one is actually taking the lead.”

Guerrero Sáenz, a former public school teacher, emphasizes the need for economic growth and environmental stewardship. Her campaign platform includes investments in water security, resilient infrastructure, and innovative energy solutions. The debate over water use between industrial users and residential users is a key issue, with industry accounting for more than half of the city’s daily water use.

Local activists have criticized the city’s policies, arguing that industrial users are exempt from drought surcharges and conservation requirements. Environmental advocacy groups have proposed the Fair Water Amendment, which would remove the surcharge exemption option for industrial and wholesale users, ensuring everyone adheres to the same restrictions and economic penalties.

The water crisis in Corpus Christi is not unique, but its severity and immediacy set it apart. As the election approaches, the outcome of the Texas House District 34 race will have significant implications for the region’s water policy and the future of its residents.