Bobby Pulido | Courtesy photo
Tejano music icon Bobby Pulido is turning up the heat on his potential political future with a series of planned “Ranch Halls”—informal backyard barbecues where he’ll blend music with candid conversations across South Texas—as part of his exploration into a 2026 congressional run.
The Latin Grammy-winning singer officially announced the formation of an exploratory committee for a possible campaign in the Texas 15th Congressional District, a sprawling region that stretches from the Rio Grande Valley to the outskirts of San Antonio. Pulido, a Democrat and lifelong resident of Edinburg, aims to challenge Republican Rep. Monica De La Cruz in a race that’s already gaining national attention amid shifting Latino voter trends.
“You may have seen the news already, but I wanted to tell you myself,” Pulido shared on social media. “I’m launching an exploratory committee to look at possibly running for U.S. Congress… I’ve always had a desire to serve.” Pulido, who studied political science at St. Mary’s University before his music career took off, said he’s stepping away from the stage to see if he can “help make the future a little better for our kids and our community.”
To gauge the concerns of his potential constituents, Pulido plans to hit the road for a series of Ranch Hall gatherings beginning in August. “We’ll have a little music and a lot of honest conversations,” he said, promising to meet with farmers, veterans, small business owners, and working families of all political stripes.
Pulido’s transition from Tejano stardom to potential public office comes during a pivotal chapter. In November 2024, he announced his retirement from music to pursue political service, launching his farewell “Por La Puerta Grande Tour,” which runs through 2025. While on tour, he’s released Bobby & Friends – Una Tuya y Una Mía, a live duets album featuring top Latin and Tejano artists. A final studio album is also in the works for 2026.
Although Pulido hasn’t formally entered the race, he’ll be weighing a Democratic primary bid against declared candidate Dr. Ada Cuellar of Harlingen. A final decision is expected by the end of 2025.
“For too long, folks like Monica De La Cruz have gone to Washington and put party before people,” Pulido said. “I think the people want their voice heard—and I’m ready to listen.”
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