Candidates' stances in San Antonio mayoral election
As San Antonio's June 7 mayoral runoff election approaches, candidates Gina Ortiz Jones and Rolando Pablos have been facing off in debates, and we're parsing out where they stand on top issues.
Why it matters: For the first time in decades, someone without City Hall experience will lead San Antonio — and for a longer four-year term.
After breaking through a crowded 27-candidate field in the initial election, both have used the last few weeks to introduce themselves to voters who might have sat out the first round.
The big picture: The new mayor's tenure will come at a critical juncture. The city is facing a budget deficit at the same time as local institutions have faced cutbacks under the Trump administration.
Catch up quick: Ortiz Jones, a former Air Force undersecretary under the Biden administration, won about 27% of the vote in the May 3 election. Pablos, a former Texas secretary of state appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott, won nearly 17%.
How it works: Early voting is underway now through June 3. Find polling times and locations online.
Here are some key stances the candidates have taken at recent debates.
CPS Energy
Pablos said the city-owned CPS Energy has infrastructure challenges and needs more transmission. He highlighted his time on the Texas Public Utility Commission, adding he supported renewable energy growth in West Texas.
Ortiz Jones said CPS needs more energy to help bring businesses to San Antonio and keep costs competitive, while also keeping utility prices low for residents.
Both said renewable energy and sustainability measures are critical for CPS Energy.
City budget
Ortiz Jones said she would look to cut "pet projects," such as the city's helping to incentivize the launch of Condor's nonstop Frankfurt flight (later dropped), and paying for city councilmembers to attend the men's Final Four.
Pablos said that spending on the city's bike lane plans doesn't seem appropriate.
Yes, but: Both candidates have regularly said they want more information before committing to cuts to address a budget deficit.
Education and workforce development
Pablos said employers turn down coming to San Antonio because they don't see an available pipeline of qualified workers, and that the fix is education.
"The No. 1 focus of eradicating poverty is aggressive economic development, and that is based on workforce development."
Ortiz Jones focused on the Texas Legislature's actions, saying the recently passed school vouchers hurt public education and the state's pipeline of talent.
"We should not be subsidizing private school."
Downtown Spurs arena
Ortiz Jones floated whether a deal for a new arena and entertainment district could help fund Pre-K 4 SA.
Pablos said the city needs to consider the Spurs' economic impact and whether or not San Antonio wants to keep the NBA team.
Neither has committed, one way or the other, on using taxpayer money for a new arena, and neither has guaranteed to move forward with a November vote on using public funds.
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