Who's In the Race

Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) faces Democrat Chelsey Hockett in Texas' 5th Congressional District in the Tuesday, Nov. 3, general election. Independent Dea Foy is also listed as a candidate, though her ballot status still needs confirmation. ​

Gooden has represented the district since 2019, after serving in the Texas House from 2011 to 2015 and from 2017 to 2019. A University of Texas graduate, he previously worked in insurance and risk management. He ran unopposed in the March 3 Republican primary.

Hockett, an East Texas mother and Texas Woman's University graduate, previously worked in restaurants and airlines. She defeated Ruth Torres in the May 26 Democratic runoff with approximately 53% of the vote.

What They Stand For

Gooden says he has worked with President Donald Trump to strengthen border security and deport immigrants convicted of crimes, according to his congressional border security page. His campaign also emphasizes opposition to what he calls Washington's "swamp" and socialism.

Hockett supports Medicare for All, a $25 minimum wage, expanded Social Security and higher taxes on corporations and wealthy Americans. She also advocates increased public school funding, higher teacher pay, and environmental protections.

The Money Behind the Race

Federal Election Commission filings show Gooden reported $1.34 million in receipts and $1.33 million in cash on hand through June 30. Hockett reported $12,666 in receipts and $5,129 in cash on hand. Reported outside spending totaled $53.71 as of Oct. 8, attributed to support from the Texas Alliance for Life Fed PAC for Gooden.

Race Outlook: Ratings and Betting Markets

The Cook Political Report, Sabato's Crystal Ball and Inside Elections rated the race Solid Republican as of Sept. 25, Sept. 29 and Oct. 2, respectively. On Kalshi, Republican contracts reflected a 97.76% implied probability as of Oct. 8, compared with 2.24% for Democrats.

Gooden received approximately 64% in 2022 and 2024. Republicans won 25 of Texas' 38 House seats in both elections. Donald Trump carried Texas with approximately 56% in 2024.

The Oct. 5 voter-registration deadline has passed. Early voting runs Oct. 19-30, with hours varying by county. Mail-ballot applications must be received by Oct. 23. Election Day polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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