Brandon “AK Guy” Herrera Advances Toward Congress — A Strong Voice for the Second Amendment
- Austin Reville
- Mar 6
- 3 min read
A familiar face to many in the firearms community could soon be headed to Washington, D.C. Second Amendment advocate, firearm manufacturer, and internet personality Brandon Herrera, widely known as the “AK Guy,” is now positioned to become the Republican nominee for Texas’ 23rd Congressional District after incumbent Tony Gonzales announced he will not seek re-election.
Gonzales, who had been preparing for a runoff election against Herrera scheduled for May, abruptly withdrew from the race Thursday. In a statement, Gonzales said:
“After deep reflection and with the support of my loving family, I have decided not to seek re-election while serving out the rest of this Congress with the same commitment I’ve always had to my district.”
The third-term congressman had recently faced increasing controversy, including allegations of misconduct involving a former aide and growing calls from fellow Republicans for him to step aside. With the runoff avoided, Herrera is now expected to appear on the November ballot as the Republican candidate.
A Major Moment for the Pro-Second Amendment Community
Herrera is well known within the firearms world. As a licensed firearm manufacturer and outspoken defender of the Second Amendment, he has built a large following through educational content, firearm development projects like the AK-50, and his ability to bring humor and common-sense perspectives to the gun rights debate.
If elected, Herrera would bring a distinctly pro-Second Amendment voice to Capitol Hill — one grounded in both firearm culture and the realities faced by everyday gun owners. Following the announcement, Herrera posted:
“I appreciate Tony Gonzales for making the appropriate decision. I look forward to being the voice of TX-23 that our district deserves. From the border, to oil theft, water rights, data centers, and many other issues. It’s an honor to be chosen and together we will make Texas proud.”
The General Election Ahead
Herrera will face Democratic candidate Katy Padilla Stout in the November general election. According to her campaign platform, Stout supports policies including universal background checks, red-flag laws, and a ban on bump stocks
Texas’ Texas's 23rd congressional district stretches across 15 counties in southwest Texas and is largely rural. The district has been represented by Republicans since 2015, and recent election results reflect that trend. In the 2024 election, the Republican candidate received roughly 62% of the vote, compared to 38% for the Democratic challenger. Still, as every election reminds us, turnout matters.
Why This Race Matters
At a time when gun owners across the country are facing increasing pressure — from semi-automatic bans to magazine restrictions and backdoor regulatory schemes — representation matters more than ever.
Having lawmakers in Congress who actually understand firearms, the Constitution, and the culture surrounding lawful gun ownership is critical. Herrera represents a new generation of Second Amendment advocates who are willing to speak plainly about constitutional rights and defend them without apology.
A Call to Action
If you live in Texas — especially in the 23rd District — this election matters. The general election will determine whether a strong defender of the Second Amendment heads to Washington or whether another vote for expanded gun control is added to Congress. Get registered. Stay informed. And most importantly — show up and vote.
At 2 If By Sea Tactical, we believe that defending the Second Amendment doesn’t stop at the range or the gun counter. It includes civic engagement and supporting candidates who will stand firm for constitutional rights. For Texans in District 23, that opportunity is coming this November.
Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world. As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube and Rumble channels and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance. We are proud to be Southern Minnesota source for all things 2A.
Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.
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