Judge Ron Rangel Will Not Seek Position as Bexar County District Attorney–Reaffirms Commitment to the Bench
Judge Ron Rangel announced Tuesday that he will not pursue the Democratic Party’s nomination for Bexar County District Attorney. The decision comes after what he described as “careful consideration and reflection” with family, friends, and community leaders.
“After careful consideration and reflection, I have decided not to launch a campaign for Bexar County District Attorney,” Rangel said. “Last year, I asked the voters to entrust me with presiding over the 379th Criminal District Court for another four years. I promised that I was committed to building on the tremendous progress we have made at the courthouse, and I remain committed to that promise.”
Focus Remains on Court Innovation and Reform
Rangel, who has served as judge of the 379th Criminal District Court since 2008, emphasized his dedication to the programs and reforms he’s championed. Among them: the Office of Managed Assigned Counsel, which has become the largest of its kind in the nation, and the Felony Mental Health Court, both now in their fifth year.
“I am deeply moved by the encouragement I have received and am confident that there are many outstanding individuals in our community who would serve us well in this role,” Rangel said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue the work we have started with projects like the Office of Managed Assigned Counsel, our Felony Mental Health Court, and the redevelopment of our magistration system.”
Campaign Committee to Return Donations
Laura Barberena, Ph.D., founder of The Friends of Ron Rangel PAC, said the committee held a fundraiser last week in anticipation of a possible run. Following Rangel’s decision, she confirmed that all donations will be returned to contributors.
“All of the money raised will be returned to the donors,” Barberena stated.
A Record of Leadership
Since first taking the bench in 2008, Judge Rangel has been elected five times and has built a reputation as a reform-minded leader within Bexar County’s criminal justice system. He was elected by his peers to serve as Local Administrative Judge, guiding courthouse operations through the pandemic.
He is credited with leading the City-County Public Safety Report and spearheading reforms that have modernized indigent defense and mental health diversion programs across the county.
