San Antonio Mayoral Debate: Key Highlights and Candidate Perspectives
The San Antonio mayoral race intensified at a recent debate held at the Carver Community Cultural Center. This event featured eight of the 27 candidates, including current councilmembers and aspirants from diverse backgrounds—both in business and local governance.
Candidate Profiles
- Adriana Rocha Garcia (D4)
- Melissa Cabello Havrda (D6)
- Manny Pelaez (D8)
- John Courage (D9)
- Clayton Perry (D10)
- Beto Altamirano (local entrepreneur)
- Gina Ortiz Jones (former Air Force Under Secretary)
- Rolando Pablos (former Texas Secretary of State)
The selection of these candidates for the debate was influenced by local polling and their fundraising efforts in anticipation of the upcoming 2024 and 2025 elections.
Main Discussion Topics
Moderated by Andrea Drusch from the San Antonio Report, the debate was characterized by the candidates urging voters to consider their records concerning public safety, education, and economic development.
Experience vs. New Perspectives
During the debate, incumbents, including Rocha Garcia, Cabello Havrda, Pelaez, and Courage, defended their records and questioned the preparedness of newcomers. In contrast, Altamirano, Ortiz Jones, and Pablos criticized them for not effectively addressing persistent issues, such as crime and poverty.
“You don’t get an engineering degree, go to GM and say, ‘I want to work for you, but I want the job of CEO,’” Courage stated, emphasizing the need for gradual learning in public service.
Fundraising Dynamics
Current fundraising reports indicate Ortiz Jones, Altamirano, and Pablos are leading the race, with Pelaez notably contributing $324,000 to his own campaign.
Ortiz Jones highlighted her experience at the Department of the Air Force, stressing her capability in managing large budgets effectively.
Altamirano, advocating for tech-driven solutions, claimed that his business background positions him to push for strategic investments in San Antonio.
Key Issues Addressed
Project Marvel
One focal point was Project Marvel, a planned $4 billion entertainment district intended to relocate the San Antonio Spurs downtown. While candidates expressed varied opinions, there was a consensus on the importance of community involvement.
For example, Altamirano expressed support without relying on public funds, whereas Pelaez was more cautious, suggesting, “Let the Spurs build their own damn stadium,” if it fails to serve community interests.
Public Safety
Public safety was a recurring theme, with some candidates citing their initiatives for crime reduction while challengers questioned the efficacy of existing laws and outreach to the community.
Housing Affordability
Many candidates noted the urgent need to address housing costs in San Antonio. Most acknowledged that deeper, reformative measures are necessary to tackle issues of gentrification and inadequate affordable housing.
“Today, the poverty rate in San Antonio is still at 18%—nothing has changed,” Pablos remarked, pointing to failed promises of progress.
Community Reactions
Post-debate, numerous attendees expressed a desire for increased coverage of candidates as they contemplate their decisions. Eastside resident Connie Rodriguez, 86, shared her enthusiasm for the insights gained and the need for further research on candidate stances.
“I really enjoyed it but I still need to research more about each candidate,” she remarked.