Armando "Mando" Martinez (born January 6, 1976) is a Democratic member of the Texas House of Representatives, serving since 2005. Martinez was born in Weslaco in Hidalgo County. He was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 2004 to represent District 39, which encompasses Weslaco, Mercedes, Donna, San Juan, Alamo, Progreso, and Progreso Lakes.[1]
Biography
Armando "Mando" Martinez earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas-Pan American in Edinburg, Texas.[1] He earned a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Texas - Rio Grande Valley in 2020.[1] He earned his Juris Doctor from St. Mary's University School of Law in 2025.[2] Martinez is a licensed paramedic and firefighter with the City of Weslaco Fire Department EMS and has worked as a critical care flight paramedic for Valley Aircare. He is also a small business owner and contractor.[1]
On January 1, 2017, Martinez was seriously wounded in the head by a stray bullet during a New Year's celebration, a case of celebratory gunfire.[3]
Texas House of Representatives
Representative Martinez was appointed by Texas Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows as Vice Chair of the Committee on Natural Resources during the 89th Legislative Session.[4] He was appointed as Vice Chair of the Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness & Flooding created in response to the July 2025 Central Texas flooding disaster during the First Called Special Session of the 89th Legislative Session.
