Houston crime victims advocate April Aguirre says a political ad supporting Gov. Greg Abbott has led to death threats, harassment and concerns for family members. In the ad, Aguirre talks about the murder of her 9-year-old niece, Arlene Alvarez.
Arlene's mother, Wendy Alvarez, has condemned the ad and wants it taken down. In a Facebook post, she wrote that she did not agree to make her daughter part of a political campaign or to use her tragedy to influence votes. Aguirre said she made the video, that Wendy Alvarez does not appear in it, and that the family has received threats and harassment.
Wendy Alvarez declined interviews in a prepared statement sent to FOX 26. Eduardo Leal, speaking for Abbott's campaign, told FOX 26 the campaign has had no conversations with Wendy Alvarez.