In 2008, Joe Frank Martinez overcame a Republican incumbent to become the first Latino sheriff elected along a 110-mile stretch of the Texas border. By mid-September, nearly 16 years later, Martinez was campaigning vigorously in front of voters at the San Felipe Lions Club on what had become a central issue: immigration.
The 68-year-old Democrat, boasting nearly 50 years in law enforcement, recounted to voters his dedication to Val Verde County’s safety. Known for winning elections decisively, Martinez had not faced competition four years prior when the county leaned toward Donald Trump. Currently, however, he acknowledged facing new challenges, driven by the pandemic, a deadly winter storm, and the influx of Haitian migrants in Del Rio in September 2021.
Nearly 20,000 predominantly Haitian immigrants arrived at the border, amounting to more than half of Del Rio’s population, and settled under the international bridge. This event stirred residents’ concerns about whether Martinez could handle immigration issues effectively, despite immigration not being part of his official remit. Nevertheless, in a community with about 80% Latino residents, questions about Martinez’s stance on immigration began to shift political allegiances. Martinez was accused by some of being lenient on immigration and even helping facilitate crossings without authorization.
Martinez, while addressing the crowd, highlighted that border crossing figures for Val Verde were at their lowest in years, even less than in neighboring counties with a more aggressive approach. He clarified that federal authorities, not local officials, control border crossings and criticized the federal response, hoping voters would evaluate him on his performance in his designated duties.
Martinez’s run for sheriff in Del Rio reflects broader political shifts, as long-standing political loyalties realign over immigration. The Latino vote, historically diverse, continues to evolve, with areas like Del Rio maintaining conservative views despite their Democratic leaning. Republicans have increasingly targeted border communities, capitalizing on shifts in immigration patterns and rhetoric framing it as an invasion.
Heightened immigration, particularly from Central and South America, has reshaped perceptions, while Democrat strategies haven’t fully adapted. Efforts under the Trump administration, such as family separations at the border, have sparked wide-ranging implications despite minimal lasting impact on immigration numbers.
The arrival of thousands of Haitians in Del Rio was unprecedented, affecting not only the community but also Martinez personally. His longstanding family ties to the region, rooted in migration, emphasize the existing cultural intricacies. His grandparents arrived from Italy and Mexico over a century ago, and his family, staunchly Democratic and devoted to civil rights, has held a deep connection to the issues highlighted by the current immigration debates.
Despite growing political pressure, Martinez has remained committed to his Democratic roots, rejecting offers to switch parties despite differences with the evolving party platform. Meanwhile, Republican challenger Rogelio “Roger” Hernandez, backed by groups like Project Red TX, represents a growing conservative presence aiming to leverage local concerns and political campaigns to shift traditionally Democratic areas.
As the election approaches, Martinez faces renewed scrutiny and challenges to his record, as immigration continues to redefine local politics and complicate historic party affiliations.
