HOUSTON — Beto O’Rourke is one of 16 people vying for the democratic nomination for president. He made the announcement online Thursday morning.
It’s a crowded race. How does O’Rourke’s political resume stack up against the top contenders?
KHOU political analyst Bob Stein believes the strongest candidates O’Rourke will face are Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Kamala Harris and former Vice President Joe Biden, although he hasn’t entered the race yet, he’s rumored to.
Here’s a glimpse of their resumes:
Beto O’Rourke
U.S. House of Representatives from Texas’ 16th district (2013-2019)
El Paso city councilman (2005-2011)
Sen. Bernie Sanders
U.S. Senator from Vermont (2007-present)
U.S. Representative from VT-AL (1991-2007)
Mayor of Burlington, Vermont (1981-1989)
Democratic candidate for President in 2016
Sen. Kamala Harris
U.S. Senator from California (2017-present)
Attorney General of California (2011-2017)
Former Vice President Joe Biden
Vice President of the United States (2009-2017)
Senator from Delaware (1973-2009)
Stein explained what he considers O’Rourke’s strength and weaknesses.
“Beto O’Rourke appeals to a new wave of voters,” Stein said. “Mostly Democratic, young voters. Voters of color...women.”
Another strength stems from O’Rourke’s ability to fundraise during his failed attempt to take Sen. Ted Cruz’s seat.
“He has raised a large amount of money throughout the whole country, from a large number of donors in small amounts. It demonstrates he can raise money for a presidential race," Stein said.
His inability to win that race, however, may also be seen as a weakness.
“I think the Democrats are going to use that against him," Stein said.
Another weakness may be in trying to convince Democrats that he is willing to commit to environmental issues, considering he comes from Texas which is a state that depends on oil and gas.
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