Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
Former Edinburg Mayor Joe Ochoa delivered an emotional, reflective address at his son’s swearing-in ceremony, marking a historic moment for the city and the Ochoa family. Speaking to a packed audience at the Edinburg Arts, Culture & Events Center, the former mayor expressed gratitude, pride, and a deep sense of continuity as he witnessed his son take the same oath he first took 32 years earlier.
Joe Ochoa began by thanking those in attendance and grounding his remarks in faith. “The first thing I want to do is I want to thank God for allowing us to be here this evening to witness this historical occasion,” he said. He then reflected on his longstanding relationship with his son’s journey, explaining, “I’ve known Omar for 41 years; therefore, I feel pretty qualified to tell you a little about Omar.”
Recalling his son’s life and development, Ochoa noted that Omar has consistently approached new challenges with determination and intention. “Omar has come to me for advice and blessings for many of his journeys and challenges,” he said. “I can attest that once Omar commits to something, he will find a way to bring it to fruition.”
The former mayor highlighted the significance of the moment, drawing parallels between his 1993 election and his son’s 2025 election. “Not in my wildest dreams did I think that 32 years later, after I was elected to be your mayor in 1993, that I would have the honor of calling my son mayor,” he said. He added that the community’s vote demonstrated a strong desire for responsible leadership. “Edinburg, you spoke loudly that you wanted fresh solutions,” he said. “You wanted a leader who puts the city’s interests first.”
In his remarks, Ochoa described the characteristics he believes will guide Omar’s administration. He called his son “compassionate, respectful, and someone who will unite people for the betterment of all.” He emphasized that Omar listens, works diligently for solutions, and understands the impact city decisions have on families. “Every tax dollar must be spent wisely,” he said, noting that residents elected “a leader who understands that every decision at City Hall affects real families.”
Ochoa also used his remarks to praise the outgoing and current members of the Edinburg City Council. He applauded Mayor Ramiro Garza and Councilmembers Dan Diaz, Jason De Leon, David Salazar, and Jerry Lozano for their unity and focus on community interests. “There is no grandstanding, no bickering back and forth, no whining, no trying to outdo each other, just simply putting Edinburg citizens first,” he said. “Thank you, Mayor. Thank you.”
He expressed gratitude to everyone who played a role in Omar’s campaign, recognizing the civic engagement of families, friends, and small businesses. He noted that community support—in both action and encouragement—was instrumental. “Thank you to all who took part in this campaign, both physically and inspirationally, for your prayers, your heartfelt thoughts,” he said.
As he concluded, Ochoa expressed deep appreciation to the residents of Edinburg for placing their trust in his son. “Thank you, Edinburg, for believing and giving my son your trust,” he said. With pride and optimism, he closed with the words, “Viva Edinburg, Edinburg forward.”
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