Texas State House Election: Accusations of Name Change for Political Gain

Christian Carranza Accused of Name Change for Political Gain

In one of the most hotly contested state House elections of the year, the Bexar County Republican Party is accusing Democrat Christian Carranza of using a Hispanic last name to appeal to the San Antonio area’s predominantly Hispanic population.

According to Bexar County Republican Party Chairman Kris Coons, Carranza changed her last name from Thompson to Carranza on her voter registration application and before running for office, leading to allegations of political maneuvering.

Carranza, who will be running against San Antonio Republican state Rep. John Lujan in November for the House District 118 seat, has faced scrutiny for what some view as a strategic name change.

Allegations of Name Change for Votes

“It wasn’t until she moved to a proudly Hispanic district to run for office that she suddenly changed her name to Carranza,” Coons stated, emphasizing concern over potential deception of voters in the district.

With nearly two-thirds of District 118 residents being Hispanic, the accusation of using a Hispanic last name for political gain has sparked controversy.

Denial and Counterclaims

Carranza denied the allegations, stating that the name change was not for political gain but rather to honor her mother’s memory, as she was raised by a single mother without the support of a father.

Furthermore, she criticized the Republican Party for what she perceives as an attempt to undermine her campaign and questioned the motives behind the accusations.

Transitioning to the upcoming election, the race between Lujan and Carranza is shaping up to be a closely watched contest, with significant fundraising efforts on both sides.