Bobby Pulido, the Latin Grammy–winning regional Mexican singer, has taken a major step into politics after winning the Democratic primary for Texas’ 15th Congressional District. The victory places the 52-year-old artist one step closer to a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, though he must first defeat Republican candidate Monica de la Cruz in November in a district that has recently leaned Republican.
Pulido’s transition from regional Mexican music star to political candidate has captured attention across Texas and among Latino voters nationwide.
From Regional Mexican Music Star to Political Candidate
Pulido first revealed his interest in entering politics in late 2024, after spending more than three decades in the music industry. Known for blending Mexican folk influences with country music, he built a successful career with multiple albums and even appeared in acting roles.
During a press conference announcing his plans, Pulido said public service had always been part of his long-term ambitions.
“As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end,” Pulido said. “Growing up, public service always intrigued me.”
Before becoming a singer, Pulido studied political science, something he says helped shape his interest in government and civic engagement.
Early Political Signals
Although Pulido initially avoided declaring a political affiliation, he hinted at his views when he supported Beto O’Rourke during the 2018 United States Senate election in Texas, when O’Rourke challenged Ted Cruz.
By September 2025, Pulido officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat. Still, he framed his campaign around unity rather than party loyalty.
In his campaign video, Pulido emphasized his personal story:
“I’m not Team Red or Team Blue, I’m Team You. You may know me as Bobby Pulido the singer, but I’m José Roberto Pulido Jr., the son of a migrant farmworker and a son of Edinburg—100% South Texas.”
Campaign Platform and Criticism of Trump Policies
In interviews, including one with CNN, Pulido said he would be willing to leave his music career behind if elected.
He also criticized the policies of Donald Trump, particularly regarding the economy and immigration, two key issues in South Texas. However, Pulido stressed that he is open to working with Republicans to find bipartisan solutions.
“I’m 100% committed. If I win, I’m going to leave music. I’m not going to combine the two,” he said. “It wouldn’t be fair to the public.”
A Music Career That Still Resonates
Although nearly 30 years have passed since Pulido’s breakthrough album, Desvelado, his influence in regional Mexican music remains strong.
In 2022, he won a Latin Grammy Award, and in 2025 he earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best Mexican Music Album while performing on his farewell tour.
Throughout his campaign, Pulido repeatedly emphasized the need for stronger representation.
“We need a voice,” he told supporters during campaign events.
The Road Ahead: A Tough General Election
After defeating physician Ada Cuellar in the Democratic primary, Pulido will face Republican incumbent Monica de la Cruz in the November general election.
The race will take place in Texas’s 15th congressional district, a region that once leaned Democratic but has shifted toward Republicans in recent years, particularly with strong support from Latino voters.
Pulido says his campaign strategy has focused on reaching voters beyond the traditional Democratic base.
“From day one, I was running a campaign for the general election, not just the primary,” he said.
Winning Back Latino Voters
Pulido acknowledged that reconnecting with Latino voters will be key to winning the district.
“There are a lot of people we need to win back,” he said. “Latinos want to work hard and be rewarded for it. When those opportunities disappear, people get frustrated.”
As the general election approaches, Pulido’s campaign will test whether a popular regional Mexican singer can translate cultural influence into political victory.
