Former Major League Baseball star Mark Teixeira has announced his candidacy for Congress, running as a Republican for Texas’s 21st Congressional District. The 45-year-old former first baseman, who played for the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels, and New York Yankees over 14 seasons, made the announcement on social media, describing himself as a “lifelong conservative” committed to advancing principles he claims will make Texas and the U.S. “great.”
Teixeira’s campaign comes as the district’s current representative, Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas), steps down to pursue the state attorney general role. Roy, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, previously won re-election by 26% in 2022. Teixeira emphasized his support for President Trump’s agenda in his official announcement and highlighted his high profile as a former athlete, which he believes will aid fundraising efforts.
The Texas 21st District is considered a Republican stronghold, with Teixeira’s name recognition and ties to the state likely bolstering his prospects. The district has also seen other prominent figures from the 2009 Yankees World Series team align with Trump’s political movement, including Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera and former All-Star Johnny Damon, both of whom have publicly supported the president.
Teixeira, who moved back to Texas in 2021, cited his family life, business ventures, and involvement in education and Christian ministries as motivations for his political shift. His campaign marks a new chapter for the retired athlete, who retired after the 2016 season.
