Sachin Shankar Yadav 
Former New York Yankees World Series champion and Major League Baseball All-Star Mark Teixeira has declared his intention to run for the U.S. Congress as a Republican. He will serve as the representative for Texas’ 21st Congressional District, which encompasses areas west of Austin and north of San Antonio. Following the announcement by incumbent Republican Representative Chip Roy that he would be leaving the House to run for Texas Attorney General in 2026, Teixeira made his decision.
On August 28, 2025, Teixeira, 45, announced his intention to run for office, claiming to be a “lifelong conservative who loves this country” and to “advocate for the values that make Texas and America exceptional.” In his launch statement, he emphasized “teamwork to win” and made it clear that he supported individual liberty, Texas families, and former President Donald Trump’s “America First agenda.” Although he has never held elected office before, since retiring from baseball, he has volunteered with the Texas Public Policy Foundation and supported Governor Abbott’s initiatives.
- With the GOP primary set for March 3, 2026, a possible runoff on May 26, and the general election on November 3, 2026, Teixeira is vying for the Republican nomination.
- Documentation must be submitted by December 8, 2025.
- The district, which is regarded as a Republican stronghold, is anticipated to attract a lot of interest from several candidates due to Chip Roy’s vacating the seat.
- Teixeira is currently the most well-known Republican to declare, but at least one Independent and a number of Democrats have also done so.
- Played for the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Angels, Atlanta Braves, and Texas Rangers during 14 seasons in Major League Baseball.
- Three-time Silver Slugger, five-time Gold Glove winner, and three-time All-Star; retired in 2016 after winning the 2009 World Series with the Yankees.
- In 2021, after retiring, he moved back to Texas and got involved with local conservative groups and charitable endeavors.
- Dedication to “upholding conservative values and defending Texas families.”
- Prioritize preserving individual and governmental liberties.
- In keeping with his post-baseball philanthropic endeavors, he supports Christian ministries, education, and charitable giving.
In what could turn out to be a closely watched race, Mark Teixeira’s entry signifies a high-profile move from professional sports to politics. His name recognition and athletic legacy are anticipated to increase his profile and fundraising.