LA JOYA, Texas - State Rep. Oscar Longoria has responded to criticism from a local teachers group about his votes this legislative session.

The La Joya chapter of the American Federation of Teachers went public with their disappointment in the hopes that the lawmaker would not support a school vouchers bill. The bill could be heard on the House floor as early as today.

Longoria, D-La Joya, gave his response in an audio interview with the Rio Grande Guardian International New Service from the state Capitol.

“I represent a diverse district, all the way from Sullivan City to Brownsville. So I try to take my votes based on what makes the most sense for the district and what is sound policy,” Longoria said.

Brenda Salinas, president La Joya AFT, explained why her group is upset with Longoria.

"Earlier this year, La Joya ISD nearly closed two elementary schools. The reasoning: Our district has lost an estimated $79,880,680 to the expansion of for-profit charter schools in our area in just the past few years,” Salinas said.

“We saved those school employee jobs because the community spoke out. Where was Rep. Longoria, who represents those employees and their families? He was in Austin, voting against this community again and again.”

Salinas said Longoria voted for a bill that would “make it easier for charter schools to move into our community and defund our neighborhood public schools.”

This audio comprises Rep. Longoria's response.

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