Best Elected Official (National)

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1. Joaquín Castro
U.S. House of Representatives (D20), castro.house.gov

While this category traditionally goes to our U.S. House District 20 rep, formerly Charlie Gonzalez (successor of Henry B.), it’s nice to see some fresh meat in the Best Elected Official category. In his new national role, Castro the (one-minute) younger has created a political identity for himself wholly separate from his twin, Mayor Julián Castro. He’s president of the House Democrats’ freshman class, and sits on the influential Foreign Affairs and Armed Services committees. Castro’s made the media rounds taking up important issues like immigration and Medicaid expansion, giving off an affable, yet informed, vibe. A whisper campaign pitting Castro against loudmouthed freshman Ted Cruz for his U.S. senate seat has already started, but by the time that election comes — in 2018 — Castro may have moved on to even bigger things.

2. Ted Cruz
U.S. Senator, cruz.senate.gov

3. Lloyd Doggett
U.S. House of Representatives (D35), Doggett.house.gov