ABOUT RICHARD
A LIFETIME OF SERVICE TO TEXAS
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO STATE LEADERSHIP
Richard Peña Raymond is the State Representative for the 42nd District in Texas, serving the proud community of Laredo and Webb County. Born in Alice, Texas on October 27, 1960, and raised in the small town of Benavides (population 1,900), Raymond learned early the values of hard work, family, and fighting for what's right.
At a very young age, Richard became involved in politics with a noble purpose: fighting political corruption in his home county of Duval. This early experience shaped his commitment to integrity and accountability in public service that continues to define his career today.
Representative Richard received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin, majoring in Government and minoring in History. He later earned his Juris Doctor from the prestigious University of Texas School of Law, equipping himself with both the knowledge and skills to serve the people of Texas effectively.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS BEFORE THE LEGISLATURE
- Worked for U.S. Senator Lloyd Bentsen from Texas
- Staff member for U.S. Senator Paul Simon from Illinois
- Served with Texas Land Commissioner Garry Mauro
- Worked for Texas Railroad Commissioner Bob Krueger
In 1992, Richard first ran for and was elected to the Texas House of Representatives, representing seven rural South Texas counties including Duval, Jim Wells, Live Oak, Wilson, Atascosa, McMullen and La Salle. He served with distinction for six years before running for Texas Land Commissioner in 1998. Although he received nearly 1.5 million votes as the Democratic Party nominee, he lost to Republican David Dewhurst.
But Richard wasn't finished serving Texas. In January 2001, he was again elected to the Texas House of Representatives, this time by the voters of Laredo, and has served continuously in the House since then, building a legacy of effective leadership and meaningful legislation.
Richard Peña Raymond is a businessman from Laredo,Texas, and a proud father of three childen, Aren(✟) Eva, and Ryan, both his sons achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Throughout his legislative career, Representative Richard has authored and passed numerous bills regarding job creation, higher education, transportation, health care, public safety, and property tax relief.
COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS
Where Richard puts his experience to work for District 42 in the Texas House.
STATE AFFAIRS
Critical legislation affecting state governance.
ELECTIONS
Protecting voting rights for all Texans.
CIVIL DISCOURSE
Freedom of speech in education.
CORE VALUES
As a public servant, Richard demonstrated an unwavering
INTEGRITY
From fighting corruption in Duval County to serving in the Texas House, Richard has never wavered in his commitment to doing what's right.
HARD WORK
Raised in a small town, Richard learned that there's no substitute for hard work. He brings that tireless ethic to the Texas House.
FAMILY
As a proud father, Richard understands that strong families build strong communities and a stronger Texas.
SERVICE
Over three decades of public service demonstrate Richard's unwavering commitment to serving others and making Texas better.
SERVICE IN THE TEXAS STATE GUARD
Richard Peña Raymond served as a Captain in the Texas State Guard for four and a half years, standing ready to serve his fellow Texans in times of emergency and need.
His time in uniform reflects the same commitment that has defined his career in public office: showing up for Texas, putting service above self, and answering the call whenever his community needs him.
STAND WITH RICHARD
Join the fight for property tax relief, quality education, and economic opportunity for every family in District 42.