NRT briefing
Dem congressional candidate's police record reveals suspensions over stolen gun, insubordination
Based on reporting by Fox News.
The Brief
Johnny Garcia, the Democratic candidate for Congress in Texas’ newly redrawn 35th District, faced two unpaid suspensions from the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, according to records obtained by Fox News Digital. The first suspension, in 2009, was for insubordination after Garcia brought a cell phone into a secured jail area despite repeated instructions not to do so.
The second, in 2020, was for negligence after he left his Glock firearm, four magazines, and his badge in his car, where they were later stolen. The firearm was eventually recovered. Garcia received a three-day suspension for the first incident and a five-day suspension for the second.
The Bexar County Sheriff's Office confirmed the suspensions were the agency's final decision on the incidents. Garcia's campaign responded by framing the suspensions as 'politicized claims' from Republicans, highlighting his nearly two decades of service as a deputy and hostage negotiator.
Garcia, who has not held elected office, faces Republican Carlos De La Cruz, an Air Force veteran, in the general election on Nov. 3. The race is expected to be more competitive after redistricting changed the district's political makeup.
NRT commentary
How We See It
Garcia's attempt to dismiss his disciplinary record as 'politicized claims' is a telling deflection, but it may not resonate with voters who expect law enforcement officers to uphold the highest standards. Leaving a loaded firearm in an unsecured vehicle until it's stolen is not a trivial oversight—it's a serious breach of protocol that could have endangered the community.
While Garcia's campaign highlights his years of service, the fact remains that his own department found his actions impaired job effectiveness.
In a race where border security and public safety are likely to be central issues, Garcia's record undercuts his credibility. He cannot campaign on a tough-on-crime message while having two suspensions for negligence and insubordination. Texas voters, especially in a competitive district, deserve a candidate whose actions match their rhetoric.
This controversy gives De La Cruz a strong opening to question Garcia's judgment and fitness for office, and it may be a defining factor in the election.
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