Texas House District 21 voters will choose between two candidates with different professional backgrounds and priorities in the upcoming election.
Republican Ray Callas, a physician and Navy veteran, is facing Democrat Jacqueline Hernandez, a former legislative staffer who also has experience working in her family’s bricklaying business.
Callas is a board-certified anesthesiologist in Beaumont and a partner and owner at Kare Infusion Center. He served in the U.S. Navy during Operation Desert Storm and was president of the Texas Medical Association during the 2025 legislative session, according to his campaign. The governor also appointed him to the Texas Commission on Licensing and Regulation.
Callas says his campaign is focused on conservative priorities, including stronger border security, protecting Second Amendment rights, property tax relief and growing the Texas economy. He also opposes abortion and says he will work to protect the lives of unborn children and their mothers.
Hernandez grew up in a working-class immigrant family and has worked in her family’s bricklaying business, along with legislative and legal roles. She previously worked for state Rep. Chris Turner and completed the Texas Legislative Internship Program.
Hernandez says her campaign is focused on issues affecting working families, including wages, housing affordability, education and health care. She supports public schools and teachers, expanded access to affordable health coverage and ensuring Southeast Texas receives its fair share of state resources.
The candidates’ backgrounds and campaign priorities give voters two different perspectives as they decide who will represent House District 21 in the Texas Legislature.