About Jerry Garza | Jerry Garza for County Judge

Meet Jerry Garza

The person you know, the Leader you can trust

Veteran public servant, business leader, and former television journalist Jerry Garza formally announces his candidacy for Webb County Judge, outlining a vision centered on “Your Family, Your Finances, and Your Future.”

Who's Jerry Garza?

Respected leader, and the Voice of People

Jerry Garza is a respected leader whose career has taken him to all parts Webb County. As Webb County Commissioner, He’s led the county’s legislative affairs team through 4 sessions of the Texas legislature and served as president of the south Texas county judges and commissioners association, representing local governments across 60 counties. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Webb County Appraisal District and has previously served as a Commissioner for the City of Laredo Planning & Zoning Commission.

A lifelong learner, Jerry has earned multiple degrees, including a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and a Master of Arts in Political Science. He is also completing his Master of Science in Financial Planning, with just two courses remaining. In addition to his academic achievements, Jerry holds nearly a dozen professional licenses across the finance and insurance industries, including as a licensed investment adviser, real estate broker, insurance broker, and risk manager.

"I've never forgotten where I came from. Every decision I make is guided by the faces of the families I grew up with—the hardworking people who deserve a government that works for them."

Jerry is the CEO of Genesis Financial & Real Estate, a firm specializing in investments, financial planning, and real estate strategies. For nearly two decades he also appeared as a TV journalist, and News Anchor, covering politics, government, and immigration along the Texas–Mexico border.

A Career of Service

Decades of dedication, leadership, and results

1992

Appointed to the City of Laredo Youth Advisory Committee

In 1992, Jerry Garza was selected by the Laredo City Council to serve on the newly created Youth Advisory Committee, giving local students a voice in city issues. This early appointment introduced him to public service and laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to civic leadership and community involvement.

1996

Elected First TAMIU Student Government Association President

In 1996, Jerry became the first Student Government Association President at Texas A&M International University. He helped lead successful efforts to secure approval for the construction of the TAMIU Student Center, a transformative project for the growing university.

1997

Graduates from TAMIU

Jerry earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from TAMIU in 1997. His academic training, combined with campus leadership roles, deepened his passion for public policy and community-focused governance.

2001

Earns Master’s Degree & Begins Teaching

In 2001, Jerry completed a Master of Arts in Political Science Communications from St. Mary’s University. He returned home that same year to begin teaching government at Laredo Community College, empowering students with civic knowledge and political awareness.

2002

Marries Maritza Benavides

In 2002, Jerry married Maritza Benavides, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in family, faith, and service. Together, they have built a strong presence in the Laredo community.

2004

Elected Webb County Commissioner, Precinct 3

At age 29, Jerry was elected Webb County Commissioner for Precinct 3, becoming the youngest person to ever be elected to the position. As a newcomer, he prioritized fiscal responsibility, infrastructure, and responsive constituent service.

2008

Re-Elected Webb County Commissioner

In 2008, voters reaffirmed their support by re-electing Jerry to a second term. His continued leadership focused on improving quality of life, expanding services, and strengthening community engagement across the precinct.

2013

Returns to KGNS and Later Becomes News Director

Jerry returned to KGNS-TV in 2013, resuming his journalism career and later becoming News Director and Main News Anchor. He led newsroom operations and coverage that informed and connected families throughout the region.

2024

Elected to Webb County Appraisal District Board of Directors

In 2024, Jerry was one of only three at-large individuals elected to the Webb County Appraisal District Board under a new state law. He applied his financial and public-policy experience to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in property valuation.

2025

Enters Race for Webb County Judge

In 2025, Jerry launched his campaign for Webb County Judge, seeking to bring decades of experience across government, education, journalism, and business to the county’s highest leadership role. His vision focuses on strengthening families, protecting finances, and securing the future of Webb County..

Core Values

The principles that guide every decision

Integrity

Doing what's right, not what's easy. Making decisions based on principles, not politics, and always being transparent with the people I serve.

Accountability

Taking responsibility for decisions, being accessible to constituents, and ensuring every taxpayer dollar is spent wisely and with purpose.

Community First

Every policy, every budget line, every decision is made with one question: "How does this benefit the people of our county?"

Innovation

Bringing fresh ideas and modern solutions to county government while respecting the traditions and character that make our community special.

Service

Public office is a privilege and a responsibility. I'm committed to serving with humility, dedication, and an unwavering focus on the public good.

Excellence

Striving for the highest standards in everything we do, from constituent services to infrastructure projects to fiscal management.

Beyond Public Service

While Jerry's professional life has been dedicated to serving and informing the public, his personal life is grounded in family, faith, and community involvement.
Jerry has been married for 23 years to Maritza L. Benavides, they have raised 4 beautiful children. A devoted Catholic, he is an active member of St. Patrick Church, where he volunteers as a parish council member, lector, and member of the Knights of Columbus.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Join Jerry's campaign and be part of the movement to bring experienced, principled leadership to our county. Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word—your support matters.

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