Daniel Elijah Vargas Announces Candidacy for Justice, 13th Court of Appeals, Place 3
August 21, 2026
Texas attorney Daniel Elijah Vargas has formally announced his candidacy for Justice of the Texas Thirteenth Court of Appeals, Place 3.
The announcement reflects a commitment to the principles Vargas believes should define appellate judicial service: integrity, fairness, judicial independence, rigorous legal analysis, respect for precedent, and equal justice under law.
On August 18, Vargas issued a signed letter formally declaring his candidacy to the people of South Texas.
Formal Declaration of Candidacy
Formal Declaration of Candidacy signed by Daniel Elijah Vargas on August 18, 2026.
The signed declaration states in part:
“A judge does not represent a political faction from the bench. A judge serves the Constitution, the law, and the people.”
— Elijah “Big Dan” Vargas
Vargas believes the work of an appellate court requires careful consideration of the record, fidelity to controlling law, respect for precedent, and the independence necessary to decide each case on its merits.
Every appeal represents real people and real consequences. The responsibility of an appellate justice is therefore not merely to resolve legal questions, but to do so carefully, impartially, and within the proper constitutional role of the judiciary.
A Commitment to the Rule of Law
In announcing his candidacy, Vargas emphasized that judicial decisions should be grounded in the law and the record, rather than politics, outside pressure, or personal preference.
“I am running for the Thirteenth Court of Appeals because the people of South Texas deserve judges who understand the enormous responsibility that comes with judicial office. The law must be applied carefully, fairly, and without fear or favor.”
— Elijah “Big Dan” Vargas
His candidacy will emphasize:
- Integrity — Deciding cases according to the law and the record.
- Fairness — Treating every litigant with dignity and respect.
- Judicial Independence — Applying the law without political or outside pressure.
- Competence — Bringing rigorous legal analysis and preparation to every case.
- Respect for Precedent — Recognizing the proper role of an intermediate appellate court and faithfully applying controlling authority.
- Equal Justice — Applying the protections and responsibilities of the law equally.
Serving South Texas
The Texas Thirteenth Court of Appeals serves an important role in the judicial system of South Texas, reviewing civil and criminal matters and providing appellate review of decisions from trial courts throughout its jurisdiction.
Vargas intends to spend the coming campaign meeting with voters and communities throughout the district and discussing the importance of an independent, competent, and fair judiciary.
“This campaign is ultimately about public trust,” Vargas said. “If the people of South Texas entrust me with this office, I will approach that responsibility with preparation, discipline, independence, humility, and respect for every person who comes before the Court.”
Official Campaign Information
Campaign information, announcements, events, and opportunities to support the candidacy of Daniel Elijah Vargas for Justice of the Texas Thirteenth Court of Appeals, Place 3 are available at:
justbigdan.vote
This article is provided as an announcement concerning the candidacy of Daniel Elijah Vargas. Campaign activities are separate from the provision of legal services through BigDanLaw.com.
Political advertising authorized by Daniel Elijah Vargas.
