AUSTIN — For the first time in its history, Texas appears poised to send a Latina to Congress. And it could send as many as three.

Democrat Sylvia Garcia, a state senator from Houston, and former El Paso County Judge Veronica Escobar were nominated for open seats that are considered locks in November for their party.

San Antonio lawyer Gina Ortiz Jones could also be on the ballot in November if she survives a runoff. But her chances to be elected remain uncertain in the district now held by Republican Will Hurd.

Garcia, 67, emerged from a crowded primary field with a clear majority in the race to replace retiring Democratic Congressman Gene Green.

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“This is not my victory,” Garcia said at her post-election party. “This is all of our victory.”

A runoff will determine the Republican nominee, but in 2016 Green cruised to re-election with 72% of the vote.

Escobar, 48, also routed a crowded field in the seat left open by three-term Democrat Beto O'Rourke when he decided to challenge Republican Sen. Ted Cruz. Two years ago, O'Rourke steamed to victory with nearly 86% of the vote.

Source: usatoday