The new administration has been in office for a little over a week, and some lawmakers have already drawn challengers for their next election. Among those is an Air Force Veteran named Kurt Schwab, who filed paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to take on 7-term incumbent Democrat Marc Veasey for his congressional seat.
A Republican running against long-time incumbent Marc Veasey, Schwab seeks to bring new energy and leadership to Texas’ 33rd Congressional District, a district that spans from downtown Dallas to Fort Worth. His vision centers on being a visible, accessible representative who prioritizes people over politics.
“I’ve always been involved in my community,” Schwab said. “Running for Congress gives me the opportunity to help on a much bigger scale. District 33 has focused on residential housing, but we need to bring in manufacturing, space, and other industries to create better-paying jobs.”
Schwab’s leadership style is deeply influenced by his 18 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a sergeant and C-130 loadmaster. With over 2,000 flight hours, including 300 combat hours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Schwab understands the value of discipline, adaptability, and teamwork. These experiences, combined with roles as a police officer, a USO director, and an executive director for a veterans’ organization, have shaped his approach to leadership.
“Leadership is not about taking over; it’s about stepping up, assessing the situation, and listening to the people around you,” Schwab explained. “For me, that means listening to the people I represent and making decisions based on what I’ve learned from them.”
Schwab believes Texas’s 33rd District has immense untapped potential. While others might see challenges in representing such a geographically diverse district, Schwab sees opportunities. “This is a great chance to listen to the people and find common ground. The communities in this district deserve to be heard and represented.”
Schwab’s campaign focuses on three core issues: taxes, healthcare, and immigration. “These are issues that affect everyone, every day,” he said. “I’ll work to find solutions that ease the burden on our residents.”
Recognizing the district’s Democratic history, Schwab emphasizes the importance of connecting with voters across party lines. “It starts with being present. If you connect with people throughout the district, they form their own opinions about you rather than letting party politics define you,” he said.
Schwab has already begun reaching out to underrepresented communities by working with local leaders, such as pastors and veterans, to host events that bring neighborhoods together. “It’s about showing up, being consistent, and building relationships,” he added.
After living in the district for 13 years, Schwab believes the time for change is now. He criticized incumbent Marc Veasey for what he sees as a lack of engagement with constituents. “A leader needs to be seen and heard, not just near election time or in a parade,” Schwab said. “Unlike our current representative, I will be available 24/7 to listen and help.”
Schwab draws inspiration from a range of personal mentors and friends, including legendary astronaut Buzz Aldrin, world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, and the actor Patrick Kilpatrick. “They’ve taught me the importance of humility and helping others,” Schwab shared.
When asked about his decision to join the Air Force, he recalled that it stemmed from childhood curiosity. “As a kid, I’d ride my bike past recruiting stations and wonder which branch sounded cooler. I chose the Air Force because it had the longest name and airplanes fascinated me.”
For Schwab, running for Congress is about giving back and making a difference. “I was taught never to complain unless you’re willing to do something about it,” he said. “Marc Veasey hasn’t been the leader this district needs. People are ready to move on, and I’m ready to step up.”
With a platform focused on jobs, accessibility, and leadership rooted in service, Kurt Schwab aims to be the change Texas’s 33rd District is looking for. As the election approaches, Schwab’s message is clear: “I’m here for the people, always. It’s time to build a better future together.”
The Republican Primary election will be held on March 3, 2026. The General Election will be held on November 3, 2026.
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