About the 27th Congressional District in South Texas

The 27^th District of Texas boasts the states most beautiful beaches and ranches. Created in 1982, it is in the southeast corner of Texas and consists of two major population centers, the Corpus Christi/Coastal Bend area to the north and the Brownsville/Rio Grande Valley area in the South.

The Rio Grande Valley is part of the distinct border culture along the entire U.S. Border with Mexico. There is a charming blend of independent Texas spirit and Mexican influence over language, music, attitudes, food and culture that captivates and mystifies outsiders. Major cities include Brownsville, San Benito, and South Padre Island.

The Coastal Bend, at the northern border of the district, shares some of the same border culture, but is removed enough to be considered beyond the border area. It is home to over 10,000 military personnel serving at Corpus Christi Army Depot, Naval Station Ingleside, Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, and Naval Air Station Kingsville. Additionally, it is a large petrochemical presence in the Coastal Bend, as well as ranches and farms. Major cities include Corpus Christi, Robstown, Aransas Pass, and Kingsville.

The economy of the 27^th District is dependent on the energy, fishing, agriculture and tourism industries. With two deep water ports, rail and international trade bridges trade is also important to the economy. Since the passage of the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the District has recruited many companies looking for a well qualified labor force and a good relationship with the maquiladora industry in Mexico.

Points of interest in the 27^th district include the famous King Ranch, one of the largest ranches in the world today; the famed spring-break retreat, South Padre Island, located a mere 20 minutes from the international border; Northern Mexico and various tourist and ecological attractions.For those who enjoy birding, fishing and hunting, a visit to South Texas is a must.

View a map of the district.