Armando "Mando" Martinez is a Democrat representing Texas House District 39 in Hidalgo County, which includes Weslaco, Mercedes, Donna, San Juan, Alamo, Progreso, and Progreso Lakes. First elected in 2004, he is currently serving his ninth term, focusing on public education, affordable healthcare, job creation, Rio Grande Valley infrastructure, and Texas-Mexico border relations. His professional background includes roles as a firefighter, licensed paramedic, critical care flight paramedic with Valley Aircare, Texas Department of State Health Services instructor/coordinator, small-business owner, and private pilot. He has served as president of Firefighters Association Local 3207 and on the Knapp Hospital board.

Education and Political Experience

Education:

- B.S. in Criminal Justice, University of Texas-Pan American .

- M.P.A., University of Texas Rio Grande Valley .

- Certified Paramedicine, Texas State Technical College.

Political Experience:

- Texas House of Representatives, District 39 .

- Current committees: Transportation; Culture, Recreation & Tourism; Appropriations; House Administration; Natural Resources .

- Former roles: Vice Chair, Transportation and Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committees; member of Appropriations, Higher Education, Redistricting, and others.