Sylvia Garcia endorses Lupe Valdez for governor

Sylvia Garcia addresses her supporters as the primary election numbers are returning favorably for her, Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in Houston. Sylvia Garcia addresses her supporters as the primary election numbers are returning favorably for her, Tuesday, March 6, 2018, in Houston. Photo: Marie D. De Jesus, Houston Chronicle Photo: Marie D. De Jesus, Houston Chronicle Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Sylvia Garcia endorses Lupe Valdez for governor 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

AUSTIN -- Sylvia Garcia, the Houston state senator widely expected to be elected in November to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Gene Green, on Tuesday endorsed frontrunner Lupe Valdez for governor.

Valdez, the former Dallas County sheriff, faces Houston entrepreneur Andrew White in a May 22 runoff.

Garcia is the Democratic nominee to replace Green, a Democrat, in a heavily Democratic congressional district in Houston. She will have a Republican opponent in November.

"At this moment in history, as working people, Latinos, women, immigrants and the LGBT community are under constant attack from leaders in Washington and Austin, we need proven leaders in Texas with the grit to push back and make change," Garcia said.

"I have known Lupe Valdez for years and have seen her fight for equality, economic opportunity and justice for all. She has the experience and the tenacity to make a difference for Texas working families."

Valdez quickly thanked Garcia for her endorsement.

"Thank you @SenatorSylvia for your support! Grateful for the endorsement, amiga," Valdez said in a Tweet.