Explore the inspiring journey of Gina Ortiz Jones, from serving as an Air Force intelligence officer to becoming a leading candidate in San Antonio’s 2025 mayoral race.

Gina Ortiz Jones is a name that resonates with resilience, service, and groundbreaking achievements. Born on February 1, 1981, in Arlington, Virginia, she was raised in San Antonio, Texas, by her Filipino immigrant mother, Victorina Ortiz. A first-generation American, Jones’s journey is a testament to determination and breaking barriers.

Gina Ortiz Jones is a name that resonates with resilience, service, and groundbreaking achievements. Born on February 1, 1981, in Arlington, Virginia, she was raised in San Antonio, Texas, by her Filipino immigrant mother, Victorina Ortiz. A first-generation American, Jones’s journey is a testament to determination and breaking barriers.

Military Service and Academic Excellence

Jones’s commitment to service began early. She earned a four-year Air Force ROTC scholarship to attend Boston University, where she graduated in 2003 with a BA in East Asian Studies and a BA/MA in Economics. During her time at BU, she came out as a lesbian, navigating her identity during the era of the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. She served as an Air Force intelligence officer from 2003 to 2006, including a deployment to Iraq in 2006.

Political Aspirations and Public Service

In 2018 and 2020, Jones ran as the Democratic nominee for Texas’s 23rd congressional district, narrowly losing both times. Despite these setbacks, her resolve remained unshaken. In 2021, President Joe Biden nominated her to serve as the 27th Under Secretary of the Air Force, making her the first woman of color and the first openly LGBTQ+ person to hold this position. She was unanimously confirmed by the Senate and served until March 2023.

San Antonio Mayoral Race 2025

In December 2024, Jones announced her candidacy for mayor of San Antonio. The city had not seen an open mayoral race in 16 years, with the incumbent, Mayor Ron Nirenberg, reaching his term limit. Jones’s entry into the race added a fresh perspective to the political landscape.

As of May 2025, early voting results show Jones leading the mayoral race with nearly 27% of the vote, followed by Rolando Pablos at 15%. With 27 candidates on the ballot, no one surpassed the 50% threshold needed to win outright, necessitating a runoff election on June 7 between the top two vote-getters.

Advocacy and Legacy

Beyond her political endeavors, Jones is a staunch advocate for veterans and LGBTQ+ rights. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America and is a Life Member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Her legacy is one of breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of leaders.

Conclusion

Gina Ortiz Jones’s journey from a young immigrant’s daughter to a leading figure in American politics is inspiring. Her story exemplifies the power of perseverance, service, and the pursuit of equality. As she heads into the San Antonio mayoral runoff, her candidacy continues to inspire and challenge the status quo.