Candidates for San Antonio City Council 2025 Elections
As San Antonio gears up for the municipal elections on May 3, 2025, all ten City Council seats will be contested, with significant changes expected. The current City Council is facing a transition, with four longtime members departing and the remaining six embroiled in competitive re-election campaigns. The new council members will also be operating under extended four-year terms, marking a pivotal shift in local governance.
Key Open Seats
The political landscape will see notable vacancies as Councilmembers Adriana Rocha Garcia (District 4) and Melissa Cabello Havrda (District 6) shift their focus to the mayoral race, previously held by Ron Nirenberg. Additionally, Councilmen Manny Pelaez (District 8) and John Courage (District 9) are stepping down after completing their term limits, further opening the field for new candidates.
Election Structure
All ten seats will appear on the ballot, where incumbents in Districts 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 10 will seek re-election against challengers. Candidates were determined through a random drawing, and any race not concluded with a candidate receiving over 50% of the vote will progress to a runoff election on June 7.
Candidate Profiles by District
District 1
Councilwoman Sukh Kaur, who surprised many with her victory in 2023, faces renewed challenges. Notably, Patty Gibbons, president of the Greater Harmony Hills Neighborhood Association, is contesting her position, citing urban development concerns. Other challengers include:
- Julisa Medrano-Guerra – Co-owner of Paramour rooftop bar.
- Matthew Gauna – Environmental science student and previous candidate.
- Ramiro Gonzales – Housing consultant and community advocate.
- Dominique “Domingo” Littwitz – Entrepreneur known for unique culinary offerings.
- Maureen Galindo – Family therapist and housing organizer.
- Susan Strawn – Attorney with a background in federal prosecution.
- Anita Marie Kegley – Professional home inspector and Republican candidate.
- Arnulfo Ortiz – Attorney with legislative experience.
District 2
Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez is a progressive incumbent backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, continuing his advocacy since 2021. Noteworthy opponents include:
- Sean Hanlin – Self-employed professional.
- Stephanie Powell – Air Force civilian employee.
- Carla-Joy Sisco – IT business manager.
- Bryant Livingston – Mortuary attendant with civic involvement.
- Kizzie Thomas – Principal at a local preparatory school.
- Sonya Moore – Community activist.
- Rose Requenez Hill – Co-founder of a neighborhood coalition.
District 3
Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran, elected in 2021 after her sister’s tenure, is seeking a third term while chairing the Audit Committee. She is expected to face stiff competition.
District 4
After Rocha Garcia’s departure, several candidates have stepped forward including:
- Edward Mungia – Former staffer and candidate.
- Ernesto Arrellano Jr. – Former South San ISD Trustee.
- Johnathon Cruz – School principal.
- Jose “Pepe” Martinez – Business owner.
- Gregorio De La Paz – Construction manager and past candidate.
District 5
Councilwoman Teri Castillo, a progressive voice, was re-elected with a significant majority in 2023. She faces two challengers this year.
District 6
This district has seen a shift in candidates since Cabello Havrda announced her mayoral candidacy. The current lineup includes:
- Vanessa Chavez – Former district director.
- Kelly Ann Gonzalez – Political organizer.
- Ric Galvan – Former project manager.
- Carlos Antonio Raymond – Retired veteran.
- Chris Baecker – Economics professor and activist.
- Bobby Herrera – Former District 6 councilman.
- Gerald Lopez – Educational board member.
- Lawson Alaniz-Picasso – Political staffer and past candidate.
District 7
Councilwoman Marina Alderete Gavito has distinguished herself in a challenging district known for nurturing future leaders. She will be seeking re-election while tackling local issues like animal shelter management.
District 8
Soon to be vacated by Manny Pelaez, this district is attracting significant attention. Expect a diverse field as candidates vie for his seat.
District 9
This district is traditionally conservative, with candidates such as Misty Spears and others emerging to fill the vacancy left by Courage.
- Angi Taylor Aramburu – Fitness entrepreneur and past Democratic nominee.
- Emily Joy Garza – Business owner and animal welfare advocate.
- Daniel Mezza – Entrepreneur with legislative experience.
- Celeste Tidwell – Former precinct chair.
- April Chang – Nonprofit leader.
- Tristen Hoffman – High school student and future economist.
District 10
Councilman Marc Whyte, known for his conservative perspective, maintains a solid base despite past controversies. He is prepared for the race ahead.
For detailed information on all candidates, visit the San Antonio Report’s 2025 Voter Guide.
