Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez to Seek Third Term
Staff Report
EDINBURG TX – Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez announced that he will seek re-election in 2026, aiming for a third term in office.
Cortez, who took office in 2019, pointed to his administration’s accomplishments over the past six years, including major infrastructure projects and financial improvements for the county. He emphasized that while progress has been made, work remains to be done.
“We have not reached our full potential and there is still much work to be done. That is why I am announcing my candidacy for re-election,” Cortez said in a statement. “Despite our challenges, we have seized opportunities.”
During his tenure, Cortez oversaw the completion of the new Hidalgo County courthouse, expanded jail capacity, implemented drainage and road improvements, and helped establish a new bio-safety laboratory. He also cited growth in the county’s fund balance as a sign of sound financial management.
To build on that progress, Cortez said the county must focus on economic development, job creation and attracting outside investment.
“To reach our full potential, we must act as a major economic hub by developing strategic alliances to diversify our economy and develop a strong workforce,” he said.
Cortez, a native of Weslaco, Texas, graduated from Weslaco High School in 1962. His public service career spans several decades and includes key leadership roles in the City of McAllen, the largest city in Hidalgo County. In 2004, he served as vice chairman of the McAllen Public Utility Board, which oversees the city’s water and sewer services.
In 2005, Cortez was elected as McAllen’s 19th mayor and won re-election in 2009 with 82 percent of the vote. He later served as City Commissioner for District 1 from 2015 until stepping down to run for county judge.
In 2018, after then-County Judge Ramon Garcia announced he would not seek re-election, Cortez became the Democratic nominee for the office. He won the general election with 72 percent of the vote, defeating Republican Jane Cross. Cortez was sworn in on January 1, 2019.
“The challenges and opportunities of tomorrow demand experience and leadership,” Cortez said. “I humbly ask for your continued trust and support. Together we can keep moving forward.”
Source — Office of Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez.