San Antonio’s Mayoral Race Shows Intense Competition

San Antonio cityscape with campaign signs for the mayoral election

News Summary

As San Antonio’s mayoral election approaches on May 3, 2025, excitement builds among 27 candidates, with Gina Ortiz Jones leading in early polls. A recent University of Texas poll reveals a tight race, with John Courage and Manny Pelaez close behind. With over 35% of voters undecided and significant fundraising efforts from some candidates, the dynamics of this election could shift drastically. This competitive landscape highlights the unique opportunity for San Antonio residents to engage with candidates before the crucial voting day.

San Antonio’s Mayoral Race Heats Up with New Poll Data

San Antonio is buzzing! With the next mayoral election just around the corner on May 3, 2025, excitement is in the air as 27 candidates prepare to take center stage to replace current Mayor Ron Nirenberg, who is wrapping up his eight-year journey in office. The recent poll conducted by the University of Texas at San Antonio has stirred up quite a conversation, giving us a glimpse into just how competitive this race is shaping up to be.

Gina Ortiz Jones Takes the Lead

All eyes are on Gina Ortiz Jones, a former undersecretary of the Air Force and congressional candidate, who has emerged as the frontrunner in this early polling phase with an approval rating of 9.3%. It seems her background and experience are resonating with voters, giving her a substantive edge in a field filled with varied and vibrant candidates.

A Close Race Behind Her

Trailing closely behind Ortiz Jones are Council Members John Courage and Manny Pelaez, securing the second and third positions in the survey with 7.9% and 5.5% respectively. It’s a tight race, and with so many names on the ballot, there’s no telling how the dynamics will change as voters become more engaged in the coming months.

In the fourth position is District 6 Council Member Melissa Cabello Havrda at 3.9%, closely followed by tech entrepreneur Beto Altamirano with 3.6%. Also in the running are Adriana Rocha Garcia, a District 4 City Council Member, and former District 10 City Council Member Clayton Perry, garnering 3.3% and 3.2% respectively. The competition is fierce, as each candidate works to boost their visibility among voters.

Familiarity and Fundraising Challenges

35.3% still uncertain. Moreover, 20.5% of respondents admitted they are unfamiliar with any of the candidates. This lack of awareness presents a real opportunity for all contenders to step up their game and connect with the public.

On the fundraising front, it’s worth noting that Rolando Pablos, despite his current polling at just 0.8%, has a strong fundraising presence, raking in an impressive $153,000. This kind of financial backing could certainly help boost his visibility as the race progresses.

What Lies Ahead?

50% of the total votes during the initial tally, the top two candidates will be heading for a riveting runoff election scheduled for June 7, 2025. This adds another layer of excitement to an already dynamic race!

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STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER

The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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