Harlingen to Elect Three City Positions this November

Lisa Campos
Sep 26
3 min read

(This article was written by Lisa Campos and was featured in the October 2025 issue of Explore Harlingen Magazine.)

Photo courtesy of Juan Macias of J Macias Photographer

On November 4, citizens of Harlingen will elect three city positions: Mayor (at-large), City Commission District 1, and City Commission District 2.

Mayor (At-Large)

Norma Sepulveda, Mayor of Harlingen since May 2022, is running for a second consecutive term, unopposed.

City Commission District 1

Current Commissioner Ford Kinsley made an official announcement on Facebook on June 6 that he had decided not to seek re-election.

Two candidates for City Commission District 1 will be on the November 4 ballot. A third candidate, John Lane, had applied for candidacy and attended the drawing for his place on the ballot on August 26; however, on September 12, he informed Explore Harlingen that he had decided to drop out of the race.

Explore Harlingen asked each candidate to summarize his or her goals if elected.

Response from Richard Uribe:

“Our district has been well served by Commissioner Kinsley, who did a phenomenal job leading with vision and dedication. As a resident these past few years, I’ve had the chance to step back, reflect, and see firsthand how much Harlingen has transformed under this commission’s teamwork. When I served before, we didn’t have this same momentum, and that perspective has made me appreciate the progress even more. Today, with the seat open, I’m ready to return with fresh energy, join this strong team, and keep our district moving forward. With fresh perspective and renewed commitment, I’m ready to serve.”

Response from Delia Cavazos-Gamez:

“As Commissioner of District One, my goals will focus on enhancing community vitality for residents through accountability, transparency, service, and progress. I will prioritize drainage improvements, street and sidewalk repairs, and better street lighting to ensure safety and accessibility. Supporting strong infrastructure will attract businesses and create opportunities for economic growth. I am committed to enhancing our parks and public spaces and fostering community engagement. With integrity and dedication, I will work to build a strong district where every voice is heard, and every neighborhood prospers. This ensures District 1 thrives today and for future generations.”

City Commission District 2

Current Commissioner Daniel N. Lopez is seeking a second consecutive term. Running against him is Frank Puente Jr.

Explore Harlingen asked each candidate to summarize his or her goals if elected. In Commissioner Lopez’s case, Explore Harlingen asked him to also provide a recap of his accomplishments during his first term.

Response from Commissioner Daniel N. Lopez:

“Since 2022, we’ve made real progress in District 2—launching Harlingen’s first ten-year economic development plan, creating dedicated drainage and paving crews, and modernizing city services with online permitting and app updates. These improvements are strengthening our neighborhoods, protecting our homes, and preparing Harlingen for future growth. My 2025 District 2 Work Plan (available at www.votedaniellopez.com) builds on this foundation with a vision of continued progress and opportunity for all. I would be grateful for your support as we continue building a stronger, better Harlingen—para todos.”

Response from Frank Puente Jr.:

“I will focus on strengthening our neighborhoods and enhancing the quality of life for families in Harlingen. Our city's heart is not along the highways--its in our streets, parks, schools and the places where neighbors connect.

Economic growth is important, but it should support our community's way of life, not overshadow it. For too long, the EDC has focused on attracting big industry attracting high paying jobs and yet we fall short of accomplishing these goals.

Although I support these efforts, we should focus more on retail development which would attract jobs and what the community wants and needs.”

Early Voting

Early voting will be held October 20 through October 31 (Monday through Friday, 9 am to 6 pm; Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm; and October 30 and 31, 8 am to 8 pm).

There will be four (4) early voting locations in Harlingen:

Cameron County Harlingen Annex Bldg., 3302 Wilson Road
Harlingen City Hall, 118 E. Tyler Ave.
Harlingen Convention Center, 701 Harlingen Heights Drive
Harlingen Cultural Arts Center, 576 ‘76’ Drive

Election Day Polling Places

If you’d rather make your voice heard on Election Day, there are many places to vote on November 4. Although locations are subject to change, these Election Day polling places are published on the City of Harlingen website: