Former Bexar County Democratic Chair Monica Ramirez Alcántara to Challenge Incumbent District Clerk
Monica Ramirez Alcántara, who previously led the Bexar County Democratic Party, is gearing up to run for the position of District Clerk in 2026. This announcement comes shortly after her departure from the party chair role following the recent elections.
Background and Experience
With over three decades of experience as a litigation paralegal, Alcántara has dedicated her career to the legal sector, specializing in personal injury and mass torts. She stated, “There’s a large need at the district clerk’s office to have new leadership and to have things run more efficiently.”
Campaign Announcement
Alcántara plans to formally announce her candidacy at a “birthday bash” fundraiser, which will feature several notable Democrats, including former Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff, Sheriff Javier Salazar, and state Representative Ray Lopez.
Current Incumbent
The current District Clerk, Gloria A. Martinez, who also belongs to the Democratic Party, was inaugurated into the role after being elected in 2022. Martinez began her career within the clerk’s office.
She has not yet commented on Alcántara’s upcoming candidacy.
Political Landscape
It is relatively uncommon for elected officials within the same party to oppose one another in primary elections. However, Alcántara has established numerous connections during her time as party chair that may influence her campaign. Sheriff Salazar expressed his support, stating, “Not only has Monica supported me throughout my entire political career, she has herself shown outstanding leadership qualities in her own political career.”
Challenges Ahead
Alcántara’s political journey has not been without controversy. In 2018, she defeated incumbent Manuel Medina to become the party chair, and she was reelected three times thereafter. Despite her successes, she has faced criticism regarding election violations, including a report from the Texas Tribune indicating she owes $13,600 in unpaid fines to the Texas Ethics Commission. Alcántara’s campaign has noted that she is currently making efforts to settle this matter.
Local Democratic activist Pancho Velazquez, who previously filed ethics complaints against Alcántara, argued that these issues should disqualify her from running, stating, “This woman is a serial ethics scofflaw and I will work tirelessly to beat her.”
