Stacked ballot awaits Frio voters in spring primaries

By Breyana Segura - Chief Staff Writer | December 10, 2025

Suspended Camacho seeks re-election as county judge

Suspended Frio County Judge Rochelle Camacho has officially placed her name on the Democratic party primary ballot, seeking a second term in office despite facing three felony indictments this year for vote harvesting.
Camacho was indicted on May 1 and remains suspended without pay following a May 12 order by the State Commission on Judicial Conduct. The county judge appealed her suspension on June 12, arguing for reinstatement while the criminal case proceeds. The commission convened on July 17 and denied her request, ruling that “Judge Camacho failed to demonstrate that her continued service would not jeopardize the interests of parties involved.”
The commission confirmed on Tuesday that if Camacho is re-elected she would remain suspended until the charges are dismissed or she is acquitted.
According to the Texas Election Code, an official under indictment is not automatically disqualified from seeking re-election; they generally remain eligible to run unless they have been convicted of a felony.
The upcoming Democratic primary sets the stage for a contentious rematch between Camacho and Mary Moore. Moore, who previously ran against Camacho, is a central figure in the current legal case after filing the initial complaint following the 2022 election results.

The winner of the Democratic primary will face Republican candidate and former Frio County Sheriff Albert DeLeon in the November general election.
Voters in Frio County will see a crowded ballot in the primaries.
Pct. 2 Commissioner Mario Martinez, who is seeking his second term in office, will face Democratic challengers Jose ‘Yapi’ Gutierrez and Joseph ‘Joe’ H. Waligura Jr; the winner will face Republican candidate Brenda L. Trevino.
Commissioners appointed Martinez to oversee the day-to-day operations of the county after Camacho was suspended.
Incumbent Pct. 4 Comm. Danny Cano is challenged by Democrat Roy J Kallio and Republican Alvaro ‘Lalo’ Tijerina.
Aaron Ibarra, who served as the county clerk, left his position on November 30. The race features Democrats Delma Aguirre and Ernest ‘Anthony’ Vasquez with Republican Luis Chavera awaiting the general election.
Shanna Gates, who has served as Pct. 1 justice of the peace for more than 30 years since being elected in 1994, will face challenger Richard Gandara.
Sylvia Rodriguez, who has placed her name on the ballot as a Republican, is hoping to unseat incumbent Pct. 2 JP Sandra Waldrum.
Susan Ruiz-Belding will run unopposed as she seeks a third term in office as justice of the peace for Pct. 3.
With incumbent Jack ‘Chip’ Proctor not seeking re-election, Noe A. Gonzales is the sole candidate listed for justice of the peace in Pct. 4.
Residents wishing to vote in the primary election must register by Monday, February 2. Early voting runs from Tuesday, February 17, through Friday, Feb. 27.