Delia Garza Wins Travis County Attorney Runoff Election

AUSTIN, TX — Trailblazing Latina Delia Garza — the first Hispanic woman to serve on Austin City Council — emerged the victor in a runoff election to secure the Democratic nomination for the Travis County Attorney position.

"I congratulate Delia Garza on her victory in the Travis County Attorney’s race," her challenger, Laurie Eiserloh, said in a prepared statement. "I wish her all the best in serving in this important County office. I also extend my sincere gratitude to the Travis County community for their support and engagement during the campaign. It has been a great honor to work with so many amazing people and create a shared vision for Travis County. Although these may be difficult times for so many in our community, I have great faith that we will get through these times and emerge even stronger."

After the polls closed at 7 p.m., Eiserloh saw the writing on the wall as Election Day votes coupled with early voting ones yielded a 14-percentage-point lead for Garza. Given the insurmountable lead for the popular city council member, Eiserloh opted to concede even before all the votes were counted. Ultimately, Garza secured 56.79 percent of the vote to Eiserloh's 43.21 percent.

A seasoned litigator who had contrasted her decades of experience against a less-experienced Garza, Eiserloh thanked her campaign team and volunteers who supported her race. "It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to work with you all. And heartfelt thanks to my family for being a constant source of support. Although I am disappointed with the results, please know that I will continue to work in our community to make it a better place for all. Wishing everyone the best during these difficult times."

Early on, Garza secured 55 percent of votes and never lost traction as the evening progressed. While on the stump, the council woman acknowledged her limited experience as compared to her political rival's 27-year career in city, county and state litigation — including practicing law in federal district courts in Texas and the 5th Circuit. Instead, Garza emphasiszed her deep community roots and civic service she said would inform her county attorney role.

Garza also showcased her civic bona fides and trailblazing accomplishments. She was first elected to Austin City Council in November 2014 as part of Austin's first 10-to-1 council, representing District 2 in southeast Austin. After being reelected in November 2016, Garza was elected by her colleagues as Mayor Pro Tem — the first Latina to serve in that role after having become the first Latina elected to council. And yet, her pioneering status preceded her council stint when she served as one of the first Mexican American women firefighters at the Austin Fire Department.

Both women sought to replace current county attorney David Escamilla during the November general election. The Republican was unchallenged in seeking his party's nomination.