EDINBURG, Texas - McAllen attorney Lucia Regalado says she is running for the 206th Judicial District Court.
The seat will open up at the next election because longterm incumbent Rose Guerra Reyna says she will not be seeking re-election.
"Day in and day out, as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney, I fight for justice from every angle," Regalado said.
"I work tirelessly to ensure that the rights of the accused are protected, that due process is honored and that the law holds offenders accountable. This balanced experience is a unique perspective that I will bring to the bench. Entrusted with the 206th District Court, every case before me will be heard fairly, every person will be treated with dignity, and every decision will be grounded in the law."
Regalado began her career as an Hidalgo County Assistant District Attorney. She said that during this time she was assigned to the 206th Judicial District Court.
For the last decade, Regalado has been a criminal defense lawyer, helping to defend Hidalgo County residents that were facing charges ranging from misdemeanor offenses to murder.
Regalado also serves as Associate Municipal Court Judge for the City of Alton, Texas. Since 2023, Regalado has simultaneously represented the State of Texas as Assistant District Attorney in Willacy County, Texas where she is tasked with prosecuting all domestic violence offenses.
Regalado said her dedication to the community is evidenced by her service as a McAllen ISD trustee, and her involvement in: Leadership McAllen Executive Board, the Hidalgo County Criminal Law Section, the Junior League of McAllen and the McAllen Airport Advisory Board.
“I look forward to meeting you, the voters of Hidalgo County, and earning your confidence, trust and vote,” added Regalado, who will run in the Democratic Party primary.
Judge Rose Guerra Reyna has presided over the 206th Judicial District Court since January 1, 1999. She said her decision to retire was a difficult decision to make.
“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Hidalgo County, Texas as a district court judge,” said Guerra Reyna. “When I was first elected, I could not have imagined the journey ahead – one filled with challenges, growth and the privilege of ensuring justice is served. I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and for the opportunity to uphold the law with fairness and integrity.”
Guerra Reyna never faced an opponent in her judicial career after winning her first election. She added:
Guerra Reyna added:
“While this decision was not an easy one, I believe the time is right to step away and allow a new generation of leadership to continue serving our community. I encourage anyone interested in being a public servant as a district court judge to run. It is the opportunity of a lifetime.”
Guerra Reyna’s term will conclude on Dec. 31, 2026. She will continue to fulfill her judicial duties until that time.
The deadline for anyone to file to run is December 2025. The primary election will be in March 2026 and the general election in November 2026.
