The Republican City Committee met Wednesday night at Gearo’s, making two endorsements in this year’s elections.
The party is backing former City Councilman Al Taubenberger in the 172nd Legislative District, where the incumbent is Democratic Rep. Kevin Boyle. In 2012, Boyle beat Taubenberger with 68 percent of the vote.
However, the boundaries are expected to change once the Legislative Reapportionment Commission passes a new map.
In addition, Boyle, who is facing legal issues, will be facing a primary challenge from Bob Stewart, who worked for state Sen. John Sabatina Jr. before Sabatina became a judge. Boyle confirmed Thursday he will be running again.
Stewart continues to work in the 5th Senatorial District offices, which are expected to remain open until a new senator is elected. The Senate special election is May 17 and will pit Democrat Shawn Dillon against Republican Sam Oropeza.
Meanwhile, Republicans endorsed Aaron Bashir to take on Democratic Rep. Brendan Boyle – Kevin’s older brother – in the 2nd Congressional District. Courts are expected to choose new congressional maps.
Bashir challenged Kevin Boyle in 2020, taking 39 percent of the vote, and he wanted a rematch. However, his house is not in the 172nd’s boundaries in the preliminary map released by the reapportionment commission. ••
