Joe Jaworski, former Galveston mayor and 2022 Democratic primary runner-up, has launched another campaign for Texas Attorney General. Promising a more organized run with a focus on civil rights, voter access, and consumer protection, Jaworski says 2026 presents a better political environment—and a clear need for change.
Joe Jaworski, the former mayor of Galveston, has announced his candidacy for Texas Attorney General, seeking another opportunity at the position after his previous attempt in the 2022 Democratic primary was unsuccessful.
In declaring his intention to run, Jaworski noted a transformation in the political environment and expressed confidence in his readiness to pursue the position earnestly. “Perhaps it was not my moment back then,” he remarked, “but I sense that the moment is now.”
Jaworski, a seasoned attorney with 35 years dedicated to civil and constitutional rights, secured the second position in the 2022 Democratic primary against Rochelle Garza, who subsequently faced defeat in the general election to Republican incumbent Ken Paxton. He swiftly backed Garza following the runoff, expressing profound disappointment at her defeat, which he described as a loss to “the most reprehensible attorney general in America.”
With Paxton stepping aside from his reelection bid to pursue a U.S. Senate campaign, the contest to fill his position is now fully open. In the Democratic arena, Jaworski is set to encounter a challenge from state Sen. Nathan Johnson of Dallas, who kicked off his campaign earlier this week. In the current political landscape, Republican candidates are emerging, featuring state senators Joan Huffman and Mayes Middleton, along with former Justice Department attorney Aaron Reitz.
Jaworski is optimistic that the absence of an incumbent, along with a shifting political landscape, provides Democrats with a viable opportunity in 2026. “I think by November 2026, we’re going to see a growing sense of alarm among moderate Republicans and independents,” he said, pointing to the far-right policies championed by Paxton and his allies.
The AG aspirant continued, “Whoever the Republican nominee is, they will be parroting Trump’s talking points—and that person will be very vulnerable.”
Since his 2022 campaign, Jaworski has focused on refining his message and strengthening his team, which now includes campaign manager Diana Arévalo, a former state representative from San Antonio. He has expanded his online presence, increasing his visibility through social media platforms and a radio program.
Jaworski has announced plans to unveil his official platform shortly. His initial priorities include rebuilding public confidence in the attorney general's office, enhancing voter accessibility, and shifting the office's focus toward consumer protection rather than engaging in political litigation.
He pointedly criticized the office’s current trajectory under Paxton, highlighting its numerous legal confrontations with federal policies and its assertive stances on immigration, voting rights, and LGBTQ+ matters.
“I’m not seeking the position of general counsel for a political party,” Jaworski stated. “My goal is to stand up for the residents of Texas.”
Among his initial priorities are enhancing voter registration initiatives, especially within high schools, and protecting the civil and constitutional rights of every Texan. Jaworski also plans to take decisive action against corporate fraud and protect consumers from exploitation and shift the office’s legal efforts towards supporting Texans instead of engaging in political conflicts.
Despite facing challenges in securing statewide victories for many years, Jaworski highlights the 2018 midterms as a pivotal moment for the party, demonstrating that progress is possible when the circumstances align favorably. In a landscape devoid of an incumbent and with the potential for Trump leading the GOP ticket, he perceives a slim avenue to triumph.
Nonetheless, he confronts significant challenges. Garza faced a 10-point defeat in 2022, even with a vigorous campaign, while Republicans continue to hold a strong lead in Texas statewide elections. However, Jaworski expressed that he remains optimistic.
“This role is significant,” he stated. “The attorney general has the potential to embody fairness and justice or to serve as an instrument of political influence.” I am striving to bring back equilibrium and trust in the legal system.
Jaworski is set to launch his campaign tour this fall officially.
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