Watch a conversation with San Antonio’s state Sen. José Menéndez

State Sen. José Menéndez said Tuesday that he thinks it’s time for the number of state senators to increase in order to adequately represent Texas’ growing population.

“I think that makes sense,” the San Antonio Democrat said during an interview with Texas Tribune reporter James Barragán as part of the publication’s ongoing “Inside the Interim” series. “Our districts are currently larger than a congressional district. It makes it somewhat difficult to try to serve all of the constituents. We do our best.”

Menéndez added that the idea — which would be the first time the 31-member body has been expanded in almost 150 years — is unlikely to gain any traction. But it is part of a “trifecta” of reforms he’d like to see, including independent redistricting commissions and the end of the Electoral College.

He also spoke at length about Hispanic voters who supported Republicans during the 2024 elections, the effects of Republican pushes against “diversity, equity and inclusion” initiatives on college campuses and what he expects to be the most conservative legislative session in recent state history when lawmakers convene early next year.