AUSTIN, Texas — The mother of slain Navy sailor Angelina Resendiz has announced her run for political office, saying her daughter’s death inspired her to fight for accountability and reform.

Esmeralda Cantu-Castle confirmed through family spokesperson Kimberly Wimbish that she’s running as a Democrat for the Texas House of Representatives in District 37. The seat represents parts of Cameron and Willacy Counties.

Cantu-Castle’s decision follows months of advocacy work after her 21-year-old daughter, a Mexia High School graduate, was found dead in June near Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia. Resendiz had been reported missing from her barracks on May 29.

Navy Seaman Jeremiah T. Copeland was charged with premeditated murder, obstruction of justice and other offenses in connection to Rese

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