Former Major League Baseball star Mark Teixeira has won his race for the U.S. House of Representatives, capturing Texas’ 21st Congressional District for the Republican Party.
The former Texas Rangers and New York Yankees slugger defeated Democratic candidate Kristin Hook, a former federal scientist with experience at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO). Teixeira steps in to succeed retiring Republican Rep. Chip Roy after easily securing the GOP primary earlier in the year.
Following the win, Teixeira took to social media to express his gratitude, stating he is eager to serve Texas’ 21st District and build a better future for local communities.
Selected fifth overall in the 2001 MLB draft, Teixeira completed a 14-year big-league career highlighted by three All-Star selections, five Gold Gloves, three Silver Sluggers, and a 2009 World Series title with the Yankees. After retiring from professional baseball, he relocated his family back to Texas in 2021. His campaign prioritized border security and opposing "radical woke" agendas.
The 21st Congressional District encompasses conservative territory west of Austin and San Antonio. Teixeira’s victory joins a series of notable high-profile sports figures appearing on recent ballots:
Minnesota Senate: Former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya (R) fell short in her U.S. Senate campaign against Democrat Peggy Flanagan.
Alabama Governor: Former Auburn head football coach Tommy Tuberville (R) won the gubernatorial race over Democrat Doug Jones.
Arizona House (AZ-01): Former NFL kicker Jay Feely (R) remains locked in a tight, uncalled contest against Democrat Amish Shah.