U.S. Senators Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, both Republicans from Texas, announced they are now accepting applications for federal judicial vacancies in the Southern District (McAllen) and Northern District (Dallas) of Texas.
Senator Cruz stated, “Selecting lawyers to serve as federal judges is one of the most important duties I have as a U.S. Senator. Texans deserve principled, unwavering leaders who will defend the Constitution, honor the rule of law, and serve with integrity. Texas is home to some of the nation’s most brilliant legal minds, and Senator Cornyn and I will recommend exceptional candidates who embody those strengths.”
Senator Cornyn added, “As a former judge and Attorney General of Texas, I know firsthand how critical it is for our state to have the best and brightest jurists sitting on the federal bench and working to uphold the rule of law. I encourage qualified Texans who are interested in serving to submit their applications to our review committee.”
The senators have set up a bipartisan Federal Judicial Evaluation Committee (FJEC), which includes leading attorneys from across Texas. This committee is responsible for reviewing applications, interviewing candidates, and making recommendations to the senators for filling these judicial vacancies.
Qualified candidates interested in applying must submit their resumes and completed questionnaires to both senators’ offices by November 17, 2025. The questionnaire can be accessed online. Due to security procedures that may delay Congressional mail, email submissions are strongly recommended. The FJEC will review submitted questionnaires and invite selected candidates for interviews.
Questions about the application process can be directed to Kenneth Lee at FJEC@cruz.senate.gov for Senator Cruz or Franci Rooney Becker at FJEC@cornyn.senate.gov for Senator Cornyn.
Ted Cruz has a history of electoral success in Texas Senate races. In 2024, he won reelection against Colin Allred with 53.1% of the vote compared to Allred's 44.6%. In previous elections, Cruz defeated Beto O'Rourke in 2018 and Paul Sadler in 2012.
