Texas Democratic congressional candidate faces criticism over campaign food and wine spending

According to Federal Election Commission records, Democratic candidate Katy Padilla Stout reported $4,338.14 in expenditures for campaign-related food and beverage purchases during March and April, covering cookies, beer, wine and meals at a Mexican restaurant. The largest single item was a $675 payment for Texas-shaped sugar cookies, listed as "COOKIES FOR EVENT." Total Wine purchases totaled $1,489.30, described as "BEER AND WINE," while Las Guitarras Cocina Mexicana receipts amounted to $2,373.92.

Republican opponent Brandon Herrera’s campaign website has spotlighted the cookie expense, labeling it a misuse of donor money and using it to attack Stout’s policy stances. Stout responded that the items funded campaign and fundraising gatherings and highlighted support for local businesses. The issue was raised during a recent San Antonio debate, where Stout apologized for a misspoken comment about Herrera’s online videos and clarified her objections to content she said trivializes serious subjects.