Unsubstantiated, Unconfirmed, Likely Untrue Rumor in the County Judge Replacement Selection

Gilberto Hinojosa, Cameron County Reject

Gilberto Hinojosa desperately wants to run Cameron County.  Once holding office as County Judge, he then struck out in three elections, losing face to face against Carlos Cascos in 2006, then losing twice more with puppets John Wood and Joe Rivera, in 2010 and 2014.

Opportunity Knocks for Carlos Cascos

Governor-Elect Greg Abbott's choice of Carlos Cascos for Texas Secretary of State and Cascos' apparent acceptance of that prospective appointment, gives Hinojosa yet another shot as puppeteer.  Cascos himself leaves a position where he gave the county some stability and budget control to become a faceless appointee, likely with the promise of sponsorship for a statewide race.  Carlos may yet learn to kiss babies while suppressing his fear of burp or slobber staining his polo shirt.

District 1 County Commissioner
Sofia Benavides

The rumor we've been sitting on, that does not seem to have any legs, is two-pronged.  We repeat it as illustrative of the kind of deals being floated out there.  This one has District 1 County Commissioner Sofia Benavides being named County Judge, but agreeing not to run for re-election in 2016.  Current City Commissioner Ricardo Longoria, Jr., would then be named to fill Benavides' position in District 1.  That would leave City Commissioner, District 1, without an incumbent. 

For those who question if Benavides can handle the position, rest assured a former county judge is willing to guide her through the process.