“I have made the decision to not seek reelection for the 23rd Congressional District of Texas in order to pursue opportunities outside the halls of Congress to solve problems at the nexus between technology and national security,” stated Hurd. 

Hurd's decision comes at a crucial time and could come with serious political implications for 2020.

Hurd was first elected in 2015 and was re-elected to a second term on November 6, 2018, when he barely defeated Gina Ortiz Jones(D) in November 2018 by 1,000 votes.

Prior to his election, Hurd had not held political office, but he served with the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency from 2000 to 2009.

Hurd did imply that he would be interested in running for an elected position in the future, but made no mention of which office.

Set to seek the seat are Republicans Dr. Alma Arredondo Lynch from Uvalde and Raul Reyes.

On the Democratic side, candidates Rosalinda Ramos Abuabara, Gina Ortiz Jones and Liz Wahl will be contending to get the nod for the November 2020 election ballot.

Many other people may consider a run for seat, including Texas State Representative D-23 Poncho Nevarez, who could be a strong candidate for District 23; an area he knows so well.

Another candidate that could look at throwing his name into the conversation is Republican Texas Senator Pete Flores.

The community has expressed their sentiments on Hurd's decision.

“Congressman, you have been the most effective U.S. Rep. we have had. We have been blessed to have you represent our district and our city. We wish you the very best in this new chapter in your life. You have served our district honorably and your service does not go unnoticed. God bless!” wrote Eagle Pass Mayor Ramsey E. Cantu.

The 2020 primaries are 8 months away with elections to be on March 3, 2020. General elections will take place in November 2020. Hurd is the third Texas Republican in the last week to announce their retirement atthe end of this term.