Edwards beat a fairly well known candidate in Representative Arlene Wohlgemuth, who was hurt by her controversial behovior in the state house (I think she derailed several bills by submitting amendment after amendment) and by the fact that she isn't an Aggie and Edwards is (Texas A&M is in the district). I think a good candidate would beat Edwards in 2006, since, unlike most Texas Democrat Congressmen from the late 1990s, Edwards is very liberal.
Ortiz and Hinojosa are longtime incumbents in 70% Hispanic districts. When they retire, I think a Hispanic Republican who is socially conservative, pro-military, but more moderate on economics could mount a strong bid---but only if he has close ties to the district. Having one of Tom DeLay's aides move south just before the filing deadline would not cut it. Perhaps Rebecca Armendariz-Klein, who ran against Lloyd Doggett in the hopelessly Democrat Austin-to-Hidalgo 25th CD in 2004, could move a few miles east to the part of Hidalgo County in the 15th CD and run when Hinojosa retires.
I wasn't thinking Delay aids, I was thinking more people like Karen Huges or a Judge Bush appointed as Governor.
It seems to me that we should at least be taking the fight to the Dems in these seats.