“The fight goes on”: Families of Uvalde shooting victims hoped for change that didn’t come

Jerry Mata, whose daughter Tess was one of the 19 students killed at Robb Elementary, rubs his eyes after learning the news that Gov. Greg Abbott was expected to win reelection during a watch party Tuesday at Lunkers Bar and Grill in Uvalde. (Credit: Evan L'Roy/The Texas Tribune)

UVALDE — Veronica and Jerry Mata, whose daughter Tess was one of the 19 students killed in the deadliest school shooting in Texas history, arrived at a bustling local bar and grill for an Election Day watch party Tuesday evening feeling nervously excited.

They were there to support their friend Javier Cazares, a fellow parent of a Robb Elementary shooting victim and a write-in candidate for county commissioner. But their minds were on the governor’s race.