Carlos Vasquez
Openly gay Fort Worth school board member Carlos Vasquez has conceded his race to challenger Jacinto Ramos. Vasquez posted his concession on Facebook tonight after early voting results showed him with fewer than 20 percent of ballots cast.
“I am proud of my five years of service on the board and the incredible things we accomplished during my tenure,” Vasquez wrote. “The board structure has been opened to allow for Board Presidents from all over our city and we have opened the doors of inclusion at the FWISD. I am also pleased at the selection of Walter Dansby as superintendent. He has made valuable progress and I know this new board will be eager to work with him to improve educational opportunities for all our children.
“I want to congratulate Jacinto Ramos on his election to the board and will make myself available to assist him in any manner as he transitions to this important leadership role within our community,” Vasquez wrote. “I was unable to conduct a campaign during this runoff election due primarily to my mother’s recent diagnosis of cancer. I wish to thank my supporters and all those who have worked so hard to improve the FWISD these last years. Our brightest days are ahead!”
Vasquez, first elected in 2009, is one of only two openly gay school board members in Texas, but many in the Fort Worth LGBT community backed Ramos in the race.
Vasquez, 45, has been criticized for his temperament and infighting on the board. His lack of attention to LGBT issues has also caused strife.