In preparation for the upcoming primary runoff elections, background information has been gathered on the Democratic candidates vying for their party’s nomination for lieutenant governor on May 26. For a complete list of candidates, please refer to the primary runoff ballot page. Additional details regarding the runoffs and the voting procedures are available in our comprehensive guides and news coverage.
The lieutenant governor’s position, the second-highest executive office in Texas, holds significant power as the presiding officer of the state Senate. This role allows the lieutenant governor to control legislative flow and influence which bills advance to the governor’s desk. The office’s authority includes managing the Senate’s agenda, overseeing standing committees, and having the ability to break ties and resolve procedural issues. The lieutenant governor also co-chairs the Legislative Budget Board, responsible for crafting the state budget, and serves on the Legislative Redistricting Board, which redraws political maps if necessary.
Current Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, a prominent supporter of former President Donald Trump, is running for a fourth term. Over the past decade, Patrick has consistently moved the Legislature to the right, and his departure could create a significant shift within Texas Republican politics and the Senate. Patrick’s influence is deeply rooted, as he has cultivated a network of loyal GOP allies. If a Democrat wins in November, it is likely that the Republican-controlled Senate would revise its rules, potentially diminishing the lieutenant governor’s powers, leading to a notable change in legislative dynamics.
Patrick secured his primary victory in March, overcoming three lesser-known opponents with ease. In contrast, the Democratic runoff features state Rep. Vikki Goodwin from Austin, who has positioned herself as a dedicated supporter of public education, while also addressing issues like housing affordability, water infrastructure, and healthcare access. On the other hand, Marcos Vélez, a labor leader from the Houston area who came in second during the March 3 election, presents himself as a representative of working-class Texans advocating for affordability.
Candidates Overview
Vikki Goodwin (Democrat)
Campaign finance as of February 21, 2026: $159,313 cash on hand
Major donors this cycle include Anne Hilbert ($7,551.83), Coleen Reatha Beck ($7,000), and others.
Experience: Goodwin has served as a Democratic state representative since 2018, winning her seat against the incumbent. She represents southwest Austin and Travis County, and in 2023, she authored Cati’s Act, which established drowning prevention requirements for childcare organizations.
Political ideology: Goodwin is consistently ranked among the most liberal members of the Texas House and serves as the whip for the Texas Legislative Progressive Caucus.
Policy stances: Her platform includes increasing public school funding and teacher salaries, investing in water infrastructure, and expanding Medicaid.
Marcos Vélez (Democrat)
Campaign finance: $12,798 cash on hand
Major donors this cycle include Relentless PAC ($388,000 in in-kind contributions) and various labor organizations.
Experience: Vélez is a labor leader and served as the assistant director of United Steelworkers District 13. He has a background in the oil industry and was honored with the USW’s Jefferson Award in 2018.
Political ideology: He is pro-labor and advocates for working families while opposing corporate greed.
Policy stances: Vélez aims to provide property tax relief, raise the minimum wage, and support public school funding.
Contact Information
For more details on Vikki Goodwin, visit GoodWin4Texas.com or email AskMe@VikkiGoodwin.com.
For Marcos Vélez, more information can be found at velezfortexas.com or you can reach him at info@velezfortexas.com.
