Former astronaut Terry Virts switches from Senate race to Democratic primary for congressional seat

Former Astronaut Terry Virts Switches to Congressional Race

Terry Virts has withdrawn from his longshot campaign for the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican John Cornyn. Instead, he is running for Texas’ 9th Congressional District.

Background and Candidacy Announcement

Virts, an International Space Station crew member, announced his candidacy for the House seat representing the Houston area’s redrawn 9th Congressional District. He made this decision amid recent redistricting efforts by Republicans in the Texas Legislature aimed at unseating Democrat Al Green.

Redistricting and Political Landscape

Last summer, Texas Republicans reshaped the 9th District boundaries to challenge incumbent Democratic Congressman Al Green. Although Green plans to appear on the ballot next year, he has confirmed he will not run in the 9th District.

Competitive Field in the 9th District

Virts joins a crowded race including:

Two Democratic candidates
One independent candidate
Several Republican candidates, such as State Representative Briscoe Cain, whose district overlaps with the 9th
Alexandra del Moral Mealer, a former candidate for Harris County Judge

"Senate candidate said he now wants to run as a Democrat for the Houston area’s redrawn 9th Congressional District."

By Andrew Schneider, Houston Public Media, November 7, 2025

Photo Caption

REUTERS / Ivan Sekretarev / Pool
International Space Station crew member Terry Virts of the U.S. speaks by satellite phone shortly after landing near Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan, June 11, 2015.

Author's Summary

Terry Virts shifted from a challenging Senate bid to pursue a Democratic run for Texas’ newly redrawn 9th Congressional District, entering a diverse and competitive race.

Texas Standard — 2025-11-07