Democratic Judge Luis Aguilar will not seek reelection, in 243rd District Court

There will be one less name on the ballot under the Democratic Judge race for the 243rd District Court, come early voting.

Incumbent Judge Luis Aguilar announced he will not be running for reelection. The announcement came in an ad in the El Paso Times this morning, where the judge thanked the people of El Paso.

“Dear El Paso,
I would like to thank you, the people of El Paso, for the privilege and honor of serving you as Judge of the 243rd District Court. And I am saddened to announce that I am not seeking reelection.
I have tried my best to maintain the Court as one of the most efficient and productive courts in this county. The statistics maintained by the Council of Judges verify this. I sent a notarized affidavit to the Democratic Party requesting that my name be removed from the ballot. Unfortunately, as of today, I have been unsuccessful. Please do not vote for me. I am not running for another term.
I am eternally grateful to all of friends, family and supporters who have been with me my entire career. From me to you – a most sincere and humble thank you!
Once again, muchas gracias El Paso, y que Dios los bendiga.
Respectfully,
Honorable Luis Aguilar
Judge, 243rd Judicial District Court”

Aguilar took office in 2012 after defeating incumbent Bill Hicks. He then ran for reelection in 2014 and won without opposition in the general election. The judge made headlines last year, after he was reprimanded for his actions and behavior with both attorneys and jurors.

There are three other democrats vying for the seat: Selena Solis, Feliciano Castanon and Roberto Ramos.

Election Day is March 6.