Tony Buzbee

Tony Buzbee is a prominent Houston-based attorney and businessman known for his high-profile legal cases and political aspirations. He gained significant attention during the 2019 Houston mayoral election, where he ran against the incumbent mayor, Sylvester Turner. Buzbee's campaign was characterized by a populist message that criticized political insiders and city government practices. He spent over $12 million of his own money on the campaign, ultimately forcing Turner into a runoff but losing decisively with 44% of the vote to Turner's 56%.14

Background

• Education: Buzbee holds a bachelor's degree from Texas A&M University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Houston Law Center.
• Military Service: He served in the United States Marine Corps.
• Legal Career: As a trial lawyer, Buzbee has represented various high-profile clients, including Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton during his impeachment trial and multiple victims of the Astroworld tragedy. His law firm has secured over $10 billion in settlements since its inception.25

Recent Political Activity

After his mayoral run, Buzbee continued to engage in local politics. In 2023, he ran for a seat on the Houston City Council representing District G but lost in a runoff election against incumbent Mary Nan Huffman.34 He has expressed interest in another mayoral run, citing encouragement from supporters and his belief that he could effectively challenge other candidates like U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee in future elections.15

Political Positioning

Buzbee describes himself as a moderate independent, having previously been affiliated with the Democratic Party before aligning more closely with Republican figures in recent years. His campaign strategies often focus on local issues such as public safety and infrastructure improvements.135

Tony Buzbee's political journey reflects a blend of legal expertise and community engagement, positioning him as a notable figure in Houston's political landscape.