Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business
During the swearing-in ceremonies for Edinburg’s newly elected city officials, two judges— County Court #1 Judge Rudy Gonzalez and U.S. District Judge Ricardo Hinojosa—offered remarks that highlighted public service, professional respect, and the strength of the Edinburg community.
Judge Rudy Gonzalez, who administered the oath of office to re-elected Councilmember Dan Diaz, reflected on his personal connection with Diaz and their shared backgrounds in emergency medical work. “I’ve known Dan Diaz for quite some time,” Gonzalez said, noting their similar paths in public service. “He was a medic in the eighties or nineties, actually, and I started as a paramedic in the nineties and became a nurse.” Gonzalez acknowledged the significance of the moment, describing it as “a very special night,” and emphasized Diaz’s long-standing commitment to serving others.
Later in the program, U.S. District Judge Ricardo Hinojosa administered the oath to Mayor Omar Ochoa, offering a broader reflection on what the ceremony represented for the city and the region. Judge Hinojosa began by expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to participate, saying, “It is an honor for me to participate in the swearing-in of the new mayor of the City of Edinburg.” He remarked on the importance of the event beyond local significance, adding, “I just wish that what is happening here tonight would be on national television in the United States, so the people of this great country could see what the border is really like and the great people who live on this border—on the American side of the border.”
Hinojosa accentuated the history of service in the region, noting that “many here have served in the military and have greatly served this country.” He framed Mayor Ochoa’s election as an extension of that tradition. “Now, a young man will serve this area and this country by becoming mayor,” he said. Reflecting briefly on his own early political experience, Hinojosa added a personal note: “It is quite an honor for me because when I ran for office as a young man, I didn’t get elected.”
Both judges emphasized service, character, and a unique pride of the Edinburg community, setting a tone of unity and responsibility as Edinburg’s new leadership began its term.
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