Attorney Heather Tessmer has entered the Republican primary for Texas’ 21st Congressional District, becoming the only woman in a field of 13 candidates seeking the seat that U.S. Rep. Chip Roy will vacate in 2026.
Tessmer, who lives in Kendall County, is an attorney and business owner who has practiced family, probate and estate law for more than 20 years.
She founded Tessmer Law Firm and has been active in a number of professional and civic organizations, including the Kendall County Bar Association, the Boerne Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of San Antonio.
Raised in the Hill Country, Tessmer grew up in Llano County and later lived in Comal County for 15 years before relocating to Kendall County in 2020.
Her background includes operating a family business on Lake LBJ, earning degrees from Angelo State University and St. Mary’s University School of Law, and serving as an adjunct professor at St. Mary’s.
In launching her campaign, Tessmer said her priorities include border security, support for military families, and policies aimed at public safety and economic stability.
She is also highlighting her experience running a law firm and her legal credentials, which include being board certified in family law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization and membership in the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.
Tessmer is one of 13 Republicans running in the March 3, 2026 primary.
The field includes former professional baseball player Mark Teixeira and former Federal Election Commission member Trey Trainor, who have drawn early endorsements and broader statewide attention. Other candidates are Daniel Betts, Jason Cahill, Jacques DuBose, Ezekiel Enriquez, Denis Goulet, Weston Martinez, Matt Okerson, Paul Rojas, Kyle Sinclair, Mike Wheeler and Heather Tessmer.
The 21st District, which covers parts of San Antonio, the Hill Country and Austin, is considered safely Republican by major election forecasters.
The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, Inside Elections and Sabato’s Crystal Ball each rated the district “Safe Republican” as of October 2025.
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