government
County judge GOP nominee says local officials should have done more to oppose emissions testing
By Brian Kirkpatrick at Texas Public Radio (TPR)
· June 24, 2026
· 1 min read
Republican Bexar County judge nominee Patrick Von Dohlen says local officials should have done more to oppose the federal air-quality designation that triggered emissions testing. Democratic nominee and former Mayor Ron Nirenberg disputes that claim.
Key takeaway Democratic nominee and former Mayor Ron Nirenberg disputes that claim.
Why this matters in Alamo Heights News
The debate over emissions testing has significant implications for Alamo Heights residents, who will be required to pay for and undergo the tests if the federal designation stands. The cost and inconvenience of these tests will likely be a major concern for local drivers, and the nominees' differing views on the issue may influence voters' decisions in the upcoming election. As the county judge, the winner will play a key role in shaping the region's response to the air-quality designation and potential future environmental regulations. The fact that the Democratic nominee, Ron Nirenberg, has already taken steps to urge the EPA to reconsider the designation suggests that he may be more proactive in seeking solutions that benefit local residents. Meanwhile, the Republican nominee's call for greater opposition to the designation may appeal to voters who feel that local officials should take a more aggressive stance against federal regulations.
About this story
Original reporting by Texas Public Radio (TPR) . Alamo Heights News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit Texas Public Radio (TPR) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: government ·
Published: June 24, 2026 ·
Source: Texas Public Radio (TPR) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Republican Bexar County judge nominee Patrick Von Dohlen says local officials should have done more to oppose the federal air-quality designation that triggered emissions testing. Democratic nominee and former Mayor Ron Nirenberg disputes that claim.
When was this published? This article was first published on June 24, 2026 by Texas Public Radio (TPR) and curated for Alamo Heights News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Brian Kirkpatrick at Texas Public Radio (TPR). To learn more about how Alamo Heights News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from Alamo Heights News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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