Houston Democratic Leaders to Endorse Gene Green

U.S. Rep. Gene Green, a Houston Democrat, will pick up support from several Houston political players Tuesday.

The 12-term congressman faces what could be a formidable primary challenge in the form of former Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia. According to a Green campaign press release, seven Houston Democrats are ready to back his re-election: state Sens. Sylvia R. Garcia and John Whitmire, state Reps. Ana Hernandez, Garnet F. Coleman, Armando Walle and Carol Alvarado, and Harris County Constable Chris Diaz.

The endorsements' apparent aim is to give Green cover against Garcia's argument that the mostly Hispanic district would be better served with Hispanic congressional representation. With residual name identification from his unsuccessful run for Houston mayor, Garcia could pose a viable threat to Green's re-election. 

But beyond these nods, Green also garnered implicit support from at least one delegation member, U.S. Rep. Filemon Vela. The Brownsville Democrat recently gave his blessing to a staffer to join the Green campaign.

Green is raring for this fight, which will come to a head on the March 1 primary. In the immediate aftermath of learning Garcia — an old friend — would run against him, Green declared the challenge a "Hail Mary."