Runoff Election Results
Jon Bonck secured the Republican nomination for Texas’ 38th Congressional District after defeating Shelly deZevallos in the runoff held on Tuesday. Bonck had led the initial primary field with 47.7 percent of the vote, while deZevallos advanced with 18.6 percent, according to Ballotpedia data. The victory places Bonck on track to succeed outgoing Representative Wesley Hunt in a district rated as solidly Republican by the Cook Political Report.
Candidate Background and Career
Bonck graduated from Louisiana State University in 2009 with a degree in biochemistry. He currently works as a mortgage industry manager in the Houston area. His professional experience in that sector forms a central part of his public profile, though the campaign emphasized his role as a servant leader rather than a political figure. The district covers Houston suburbs where local economic concerns, including housing costs, remain prominent.
Endorsements and Campaign Positioning
Bonck received endorsements from President Donald Trump and Senator Ted Cruz of Texas. Additional support came from Representatives Brandon Gill and Morgan Luttrell, both Texas Republicans. Throughout the campaign he presented himself as a Christian conservative and family man focused on practical governance rather than celebrity status. These endorsements helped consolidate support in a district that has consistently favored Republican candidates in recent cycles.
Key Issues Identified by Bonck
In a pre-runoff questionnaire, Bonck identified affordability, immigration, and public safety as the primary challenges facing the district. He stated that putting America first requires securing the border, ending unrestricted foreign aid, reducing government waste and regulation, lowering costs for families, and empowering parents in education and healthcare decisions. Bonck argued that government should step back to allow small businesses to expand and families to direct their own choices in schooling and medical care.
General Election Outlook
Bonck will face Democrat Melissa McDonough in the November general election. Given the district’s strong Republican lean and the Cook Political Report’s Solid Republican rating, Bonck enters the race as the clear favorite. The contest follows Hunt’s decision to forgo reelection and pursue a U.S. Senate bid instead, leaving the seat open for the first time since its creation.
