Zamora: I am running for the 206th state District Court

MCALLEN, Texas – Attorney Juan Zamora, a legal professional with over 17 years of experience serving the Rio Grande Valley, says he is running for Judge of the 206th 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.

Zamora says that with a distinguished career in both private practice and judicial service, he brings a wealth of legal expertise, a deep commitment to justice, and an unwavering dedication to the community he has served for decades.

“I’ve always felt deeply that public service is the most honorable duty that a citizen can engage in,” Zamora said. “As a husband, a father, a marine, and as an attorney, I’ve seen how injustice can ruin lives. As a judge, I’m going to change that.”

Zamora was born and raised in McAllen. Following military service with the Marine Corps, he pursued higher education at UT Pan American (now UTRGV) before earning his Juris Doctor from The University of Texas School of Law in 2007. He says his legal career was shaped early on by his clerkship with Federal Judge Ricardo Hinojosa in the late 2000s. He says this experience provided him with a deep understanding of the judicial process and reinforced his commitment to upholding the rule of law.

A press release put out by the Zamora campaign says the candidate has “spent his career fighting for fairness and justice, building a reputation as a principled and results-driven attorney.” It says his trial experience and “deep understanding of judicial procedures” provides him with the perspective and discipline necessary to serve on the bench. “Having worked on a wide range of legal matters, he understands the complexities of the law and the real-world impact judicial decisions have on individuals and families,” the press release states.

The press release thanks Judge Guerra Reyna for her 28 years of service to the 206th District Court. “Her leadership, professionalism, and commitment to justice have left a lasting impact on Hidalgo County,” the press release states.

Guerra Reyna to retire

State District Judge Rose Guerra Reyna

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.

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