Bexar County’s last Republican commissioner, Grant Moody, is facing a challenging reelection campaign in a district that has historically leaned Republican but is now showing signs of a political shift. As the presidential election approaches, local races are being overshadowed, making Moody’s fight to retain his seat even more critical.
Key Takeaways
- Grant Moody represents Precinct 3, a historically Republican area in Bexar County.
- Recent demographic changes and voter trends indicate a tightening race.
- Moody’s opponent, Susan Korbel, is capitalizing on growing Democratic enthusiasm.
- The political landscape is evolving, with both candidates focusing on local issues.
The Changing Political Landscape
Bexar County has long been a stronghold for Republican candidates, particularly in Precinct 3, which has sent numerous Republicans to the county’s five-member commissioners court. However, recent years have seen a decline in Republican support at both the state and federal levels, coinciding with significant population growth in the area.
Moody, a Marine fighter pilot who won his seat in a 2022 special election, acknowledges the shifting dynamics. He won the last election by a narrow margin, and recent polling suggests that the race is tightening further.
Voter Trends and Demographics
- Population Growth: Precinct 3 has added approximately 100,000 new registered voters from 2012 to 2022, marking a nearly 40% increase.
- Election Results: In the 2020 presidential election, former President Trump won the precinct by just 0.7 percentage points, a stark contrast to his double-digit victory in 2016.
- Democratic Enthusiasm: A recent poll indicates a surge in Democratic enthusiasm following Vice President Kamala Harris’s nomination, complicating Moody’s reelection efforts.
Campaign Strategies
As early voting approaches, Moody is actively fundraising and preparing for an advertising campaign to bolster his reelection bid against Democrat Susan Korbel. He emphasizes his fiscally conservative approach to local issues, aiming to appeal to a broader audience, including independents and moderate Democrats.
Korbel, who has a background in market research, is leveraging her experience and the changing demographics of the precinct to mount a serious challenge. She believes that many new residents view Democrats as more supportive of their needs, particularly in areas like infrastructure and public services.
The Candidates’ Profiles
- Grant Moody:
- Susan Korbel:
Conclusion
As the election draws near, both candidates are navigating a complex political landscape marked by shifting voter sentiments and demographic changes. Moody’s incumbency and experience may provide an advantage, but Korbel’s focus on local issues and the changing political climate could make this a closely contested race. The outcome will not only determine the future of Precinct 3 but also reflect broader trends in Bexar County and beyond.
Sources
- Bexar County’s last Republican commissioner fights to hang on in a presidential battleground, San Antonio Report.
