Gregorio De La Paz

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Gregorio De La Paz
Image of Gregorio De La Paz

Nonpartisan

Elections and appointments
Last election

May 3, 2025

Education

High school

Southwest High School

Associate

Palo Alto College, 2006

Military

Service / branch

U.S. Marine Corps

Years of service

1990 - 1994

Personal
Birthplace
San Antonio, Texas
Religion
Christian
Profession
Construction manager
Contact

Campaign website

Campaign Facebook

Campaign Instagram

Gregorio De La Paz ran for election to the San Antonio City Council to represent District 4 in Texas. He lost in the general election on May 3, 2025.

De La Paz completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.

Biography

Gregorio De La Paz was born in San Antonio, Texas. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1990 to 1994. He graduated from Southwest High School. He earned an associate degree from Palo Alto College in 2006 and attended Texas A&M. His career experience includes working as a construction manager.[1]

Elections

2025

See also: City elections in San Antonio, Texas (2025)

General election

General election for San Antonio City Council District 4

Edward Mungia defeated Jose Martinez, Johnathon Cruz, Ernesto Arrellano Jr., and Gregorio De La Paz in the general election for San Antonio City Council District 4 on May 3, 2025.

Candidate
%
Votes
✔
Image of Edward Mungia
Edward Mungia (Nonpartisan) Candidate Connection
 
56.8
 
3,116
Silhouette Placeholder Image.png
Submit photo
Jose Martinez (Nonpartisan)
 
15.2
 
836
Image of Johnathon Cruz
Johnathon Cruz (Nonpartisan)
 
12.8
 
700
Silhouette Placeholder Image.png
Submit photo
Ernesto Arrellano Jr. (Nonpartisan)
 
8.0
 
437
Image of Gregorio De La Paz
Gregorio De La Paz (Nonpartisan) Candidate Connection
 
7.2
 
397

There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source

Total votes: 5,486
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for De La Paz in this election.

2023

See also: City elections in San Antonio, Texas (2023)

General election

General election for San Antonio City Council District 4

Incumbent Adriana Garcia defeated Gregorio De La Paz in the general election for San Antonio City Council District 4 on May 6, 2023.

Candidate
%
Votes
✔
Image of Adriana Garcia
Adriana Garcia (Nonpartisan)
 
75.2
 
4,643
Image of Gregorio De La Paz
Gregorio De La Paz (Nonpartisan)
 
24.8
 
1,535

Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source

Total votes: 6,178
Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection

Candidate Connection

Gregorio De La Paz completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by De La Paz's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

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Gregorio De La Paz knows the meaning of hard work, sacrifice, and service. Born and raised in humble beginnings, he learned early on that perseverance and dedication could open doors. Determined to create a better future, he joined the United States Marine Corps, where he served with honor and discipline, forging the leadership skills to guide him for a lifetime.

After completing his military service, Gregorio De La Paz returned home to the community that had raised him. He built a life centered around family, hard work, and service to others. As a single father to five daughters and a proud grandfather of four, he understands the challenges families face every day. His experiences as a parent have shaped his belief in the importance of strong communities, quality education, and economic opportunities for all. For the past 35 years, Gregorio De La Paz has worked at the same company, rising through the ranks and mentoring countless employees along the way. His commitment to hard work and integrity has made him a trusted leader in the workplace, where he has helped others find stability and success. Now, Gregorio De La Paz is ready to take his leadership to the next level—fighting for working families, supporting small businesses, and ensuring a brighter future for the next generation. With a lifetime of service, experience, and dedication, he is running for office to bring common-sense solutions and real leadership to our community.

Gregorio De La Paz believes in leading by ex
  • Public safety is a top priority for our district. Residents deserve to feel safe in their homes, on their streets, and in their businesses. I will work to strengthen community policing efforts, ensuring officers build trust with the neighborhoods they serve. By taking a proactive and community-centered approach, we can create a safer, more secure environment for everyone
  • Infrastructure in our district is aging and struggling to keep up with growth. Crumbling roads and outdated drainage systems are daily challenges for residents. I will prioritize funding for road repairs and traffic improvements, push for expanded public transit options to reduce congestion and invest in sustainable infrastructure solutions to accommodate future growth.
  • Economic development is key to creating opportunities and improving the quality of life in our district. I will support small businesses by cutting red tape and creating business-friendly policies that encourage entrepreneurship. Additionally, I will support job training programs and partnerships with local industries to ensure residents have the skills needed for good-paying jobs. By investing in local businesses and workforce development, we can create a thriving economy that benefits everyone in our community. In addition, I will work to bring back vocational and trade programs in our high schools, ensuring students have access to hands-on training in essential fields like A/C and heating, electrical, welding, plumbing, and automotive
I am personally passionate about public safety and standing in strong support of our first responders. A safe community is the foundation upon which everything else is built—whether it’s raising a family, building a business, or simply enjoying life in our city. That’s why I believe we must prioritize policies that protect our neighborhoods, support the men and women who serve on the front lines, and ensure San Antonio remains a place where families feel secure and respected.

Supporting our police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other emergency responders isn’t just good policy—it’s the right thing to do. These professionals put their lives on the line daily to protect our homes, our schools, and our loved ones.
This office is unique and important because it serves as a direct link between the people and the decisions that impact their daily lives—especially when it comes to public safety, justice, and responsible local governance.

I bring a different perspective to this role. I’m a Marine, a single father of five daughters, someone who grew up poor and worked my way from the bottom to management. I understand struggle, sacrifice, and the value of hard work. I’m not a politician—I’m a citizen who knows what it means to fight for a better life and to want something more for your family and your community.

That’s exactly why this office matters. It’s not about titles or political ambition—it’s about standing up for everyday people, ensuring fairness, protecting our communities, and making sure government works the way it’s supposed to.
I look up to my father and the Marine Corps. My father taught me the value of hard work, dedication, and doing the right thing, no matter how difficult it may be. He was a constant example of strength and perseverance. The Marine Corps further shaped my character, instilling in me the importance of discipline, honor, and serving something greater than yourself. These are the principles I strive to follow every day in both my personal life and in any role I take on.
Yes—if someone wants to understand my political philosophy, I’d recommend reading or watching Ronald Reagan’s “A Time for Choosing” speech.

Delivered in 1964, it’s more than just a campaign speech—it’s a clear and powerful expression of core conservative values: personal responsibility, limited government, individual liberty, national strength, and faith in the American people. Reagan speaks directly to the idea that government should serve the people, not control them, and that freedom must be protected through courage, conviction, and common sense.

The themes in that speech still resonate today and align closely with my own beliefs about public service, community leadership, and putting people before politics.
The most important characteristics for an elected official, in my view, are transparency, accountability, and trust.

Transparency means being open and honest with the people you serve—communicating clearly, sharing information, and making decisions in the light of day, not behind closed doors. It’s about making sure the public knows how and why decisions are being made.

Accountability goes hand-in-hand with transparency. Elected officials must be responsible for their actions and willing to answer for their choices. That includes listening to constituents, owning up to mistakes, and always putting the community’s interests above personal or political gain.

Most of all, trust is essential. Trust is earned by doing what you say you’ll do, treating people with respect, and showing up consistently with integrity. Without trust, leadership has no foundation. With it, real progress becomes possible.

These principles guide how I approach public service—and they’re what I believe every elected official should live by.
I believe my life experience, including 30 years in management, would make me a successful officeholder. I’ve spent my career using common sense, creating budgets, and managing schedules, which has taught me how to prioritize and make sound decisions. I understand how every decision we make impacts the local community, and I’m not afraid to speak up or challenge the status quo if it means doing what’s right for the people. I’m not a yes man—I believe in making decisions based on what benefits the community, not political convenience.
The core responsibilities of someone elected to this office are to represent the community with honesty, advocate for its best interests, and make decisions that improve the safety, quality of life, and long-term success of the people they serve.

That starts with listening—truly understanding the concerns, needs, and priorities of local residents. It also means being accessible, responsive, and actively engaged in the issues that matter most, from public safety and infrastructure to responsible budgeting and community development.

Another key responsibility is to ensure transparency and accountability in local government. That includes being a good steward of taxpayer dollars, asking the tough questions, and keeping the public informed every step of the way.

Ultimately, this role is about service, not status. It’s about earning and keeping the trust of the people through hard work, clear communication, and a commitment to doing what’s right.
The legacy I would like to leave is one of service, integrity, and real change. I want to be remembered as someone who always put people first—someone who worked hard to make the community a better place, not for personal gain, but for future generations.

I hope my legacy will reflect the values of honesty, accountability, transparency and a commitment to making tough decisions when needed. I want people to look back and say that I helped improve public safety, supported families, and always prioritized the well-being of the community over politics or personal interests.

Ultimately, I want to leave behind a legacy where people feel proud of the community we’ve built together and know that their voices were heard.
The first historical event I remember in my lifetime was watching Ronald Reagan get elected in 1981. I was with my father at the time, and it left a lasting impression on me. I was young, but I could feel the significance of the moment and the excitement surrounding it. That experience has stayed with me as a reminder of how powerful leadership and elections can be in shaping the future.
My very first job was helping my father at our local automotive repair business. I started working there when I was just 9 years old, learning the value of hard work and responsibility. I continued to help him until I joined the Marines. Alongside that, I also had a part-time job at HEB groceries, which gave me more experience in customer service and managing time. These early jobs taught me the importance of dedication, resilience, and the power of community.
My favorite book is Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare. I appreciate its wit, humor, and the way it explores themes of love, deception, and human nature. The playful banter between Beatrice and Benedick is both entertaining and insightful, showing how people can be complex and layered. I also admire how the play touches on the importance of trust, communication, and personal growth—all values that resonate with me. The movie is wonderful.
If I could be any fictional character, I’d choose Thor. He stands for strength, honor, and protecting others, and he never backs down from a fight when it comes to defending what’s right. Plus, let’s be honest—wielding a hammer that only answers to you? That’s hard to beat. Thor balances power with responsibility, and that’s something I respect and relate to.
The last song that got stuck in my head was "I Shot the Sheriff" by Bob Marley. The song is often interpreted as a reflection on justice, resistance, and personal accountability. In the song, Marley tells the story of someone who is wronged by authority figures and, in the heat of the moment, takes matters into their own hands. It's a song that speaks to themes of power, corruption, and the struggle for personal freedom. Beyond the surface, it highlights a deeper sense of frustration and the consequences of societal injustices.
One of the biggest struggles in my life was growing up in a challenging financial situation. My family didn’t have a lot, and there were times when we had to work hard just to make ends meet. But it was during those tough times that I learned the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of staying grounded no matter how difficult things got.

It wasn’t easy, but those struggles shaped who I am today. They gave me a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of what it means to fight for something better, not just for yourself but for your community and your family. That experience is what drives me to want to serve others and make sure the decisions I make are for the benefit of everyone, especially those facing challenges.
In San Antonio, Texas, the City Council holds significant authority as part of the city’s council-manager form of government. Here are the key powers and responsibilities of the San Antonio City Council:

1. Legislative Authority
Pass ordinances and resolutions that govern the city.

Approve the city budget and set the tax rate.

Make decisions on zoning, land use, and development.

Approve city contracts, purchases, and major expenditures.

2. Oversight and Accountability
Provide oversight of city departments and services.

Hold public meetings and hearings to gather community input.

Monitor the performance of the City Manager, who is appointed by the Council and responsible for day-to-day city operations.

3. Appointments and Representation
Appoint members to city boards and commissions.

Represent the interests of their respective districts and serve as a voice for local constituents.

Work closely with the Mayor, who is part of the council and has a vote but limited executive power.

4. Public Safety and Infrastructure
Make policy decisions that impact public safety, infrastructure, transportation, and utilities.

Approve funding and priorities for police, fire, EMS, and other essential services.

In short, San Antonio’s City Council is responsible for setting the direction of the city through policymaking, budgeting, and local lawmaking—while ensuring city services are delivered efficiently and fairly.
First, you have to be elected—so no, I don’t believe previous experience in government or politics is necessary to serve effectively in this office.

What truly matters are your values, beliefs, and life experience. People want leaders who understand their struggles, who live by common sense, and who are guided by integrity—not political ambition.

I believe someone who has worked hard, faced real challenges, and stayed grounded in their community can represent the people just as well—if not better—than a career politician. Leadership is about listening, learning, and doing what’s right, not just checking boxes on a political résumé.
The most helpful skills for holders of this office are strong morals, the ability to stay grounded, and a commitment to making meaningful changes that benefit the people—without seeking political gain.

It’s important to approach leadership with integrity and a focus on what’s truly best for the community, not personal or party interests. A leader should be able to listen to the people, understand their concerns, and make decisions that lead to real, positive change.

This office should be about service, not about climbing the political ladder. It’s about representing the people, staying connected to the community, and ensuring decisions are made for the greater good, not for personal or political advantage.
This office is unique and important because it serves as the direct link between the government and the people. It’s a place where community values, concerns, and needs are represented in the decision-making process. The office allows leaders to make real, tangible changes that improve daily life for everyone—whether it’s enhancing public safety, supporting local businesses, or ensuring that the voice of every resident is heard.

What sets this office apart is its focus on local issues and the ability to make decisions quickly and effectively at the city level. The decisions made here can directly impact people's lives in a way that is immediate and visible. It's not about political gain; it's about working for the people.

This position also holds the responsibility of maintaining balance—we must ensure growth and development while protecting the things that make our community great, like our neighborhoods, safety, and the values that bring us together.

Ultimately, this office isn’t just about holding a title. It’s about serving the community, making meaningful change, and staying grounded in the core values that truly matter.
At times I would say our Government in DC.
The Republicans, Libertarians, and San Antonio Family Association
I believe financial transparency and government accountability are non-negotiable. Taxpayers deserve to know exactly how their money is being spent and whether it’s being used responsibly, efficiently, and ethically.

Transparency builds trust. When elected officials are open about budgets, contracts, and decision-making processes, it gives the public confidence that their government is working for them—not behind their backs. I support regular financial reporting, public access to records, and clear communication on how and why spending decisions are made.

Accountability means taking ownership of results—good or bad. It’s about making decisions in the open, being honest about outcomes, and correcting course when necessary. Public service should never be about politics or personal gain. It should be about delivering real value to the people.

If elected, I’ll always push for clear financial oversight, honest leadership, and a government that answers to its citizens.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

2023

Gregorio De La Paz did not complete Ballotpedia's 2023 Candidate Connection survey.

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    Footnotes

    1. ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on May 2, 2025
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