Q&A: Texas primary Democratic candidates for US House of Representatives
Elections in Greater Houston area districts for U.S. House of Representatives
As part of The Signal’s Texas Primary Voter Guide, questionnaires with five questions were sent to Texas candidates in the race for U.S. House of Representatives. Below are responses from Democratic candidates/campaigns in Greater Houston area districts, listed by district number.
To view responses from the Republican candidates/campaigns, click here. To view The Signal’s Texas Primary Voter Guide, click here.
Editor’s Note: The Signal did not receive responses from some candidates in time for publication. If received at a later date, this post will be updated to include their responses.
District 2
Elisa Cardnell (D)
Residence: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Teacher
Website: elisacardnell.com
Editor’s Note: The Signal did not receive responses from candidates Sima Ladjevardian (D) and Travis Olsen (D) in time for publication. If received at a later date, this post will be updated to include their responses.
Q: Why did you decide to run for the United States House of Representatives?
Service has always been part of my family. I was born on an Army base in West Germany. After 9/11 I knew it was my turn to step up and serve. I joined Navy ROTC at Rice [University] and earned my commission the day I graduated. I served five years active duty, including a deployment to the Persian Gulf, until I had my daughter and developed my first pre-existing condition. I came home to Houston to continue serving as a teacher and in the Reserves. I served in the Reserves for six years until April of 2018 when they told me I had too many pre-existing conditions to continue serving. At the same time I watched as Republicans were trying to repeal Obamacare and Dan Crenshaw cheered them on. When he won my district with less than 53% of the vote, I knew it was my turn to step up and serve again.
Q: Who is one of your biggest inspirations? Why?
My inspiration isn’t just one person. It’s everyone who has come out to protest, to register voters, to knock doors, to vote, and who have gotten engaged since 2016. From those at the climate strikes to the Women’s March to all the local events. Real power comes from individuals standing up and demanding change. Those everyday Americans who took time out of their day to get involved inspire me everyday to keep working and keep organizing.
Q: What do you remember about the first time you voted? What motivated you to?
The first time I ever voted was in 2004. I voted absentee while I attended Rice University. I was too young to vote in 2000, but I vividly recall Bush winning the electoral college but losing the popular vote. I knew with 2004 being my first presidential election I had to vote because every vote counts and just a few votes can make the difference.
Q: Why should college students, some who may be first time voters, choose to vote for you?
There are so many critical issues on the table this year that student voters can’t stay home. From making higher education debt-free to tackling the climate crisis, we need representatives who will fight for all of their constituents, including their college-age constituents. I believe it’s important that young voters have a seat at the table and that we should listen. When we straddle a generation with debt, we hold our entire economy back. When we fail to meet the challenge of climate change, we endanger our youngest voters’ future. I will make sure that I always advocate for students in my campaign and once in office.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
We are running a grassroots campaign and we couldn’t do it without our student volunteers! We have a team of college fellows at UH, Rice, and all across our Houston helping our campaign. Fellows are part time, volunteer positions that help out 5-10 hours a week. Hours are flexible and can work around a job and be done mostly remotely. Interested students can join the team at elisacardnell.com/fellowship. We’d love to have you on the team!
District 8
Laura Jones (D)
Residence: Coldspring, Texas
Occupation: Realtor
Website: laurajonesforcongress.com
Editor’s Note: The Signal did not receive responses from candidate Elizabeth Hernandez (D) in time for publication. If received at a later date, this post will be updated to include their responses.
Q: Why did you decide to run for the United States House of Representatives?
I moved to a small rural Texas town about 17 months ago. I was born and raised in Houston, where my husband and I owned a successful small business and raised six children. We worked hard and focused on raising our children to become productive adults.
Moving to rural Texas opened my eyes to how many services were lacking in the area. I couldn’t ignore the numerous issues that my fellow residents faced, but anytime I asked why certain problems persisted, the answer was always a lack of proper representation. There was even a lack of representation within my county’s Democratic Party, where there was no one willing to become the next county chair. So I stepped up. When 19 rural counties in my senate district needed representation to the state leadership, I stepped up again to be the voice for those that weren’t being heard.
I kept waiting for a candidate to appear to run against Kevin Brady, but no one did. So once again, I am stepping up. I started my campaign early and I’m committed to being the best representative possible, not just for some of the people in District 8 but all of the people.
I moved to rural Texas for the peace and beauty. I found it, but I also found many things that were lacking:
– Basic medical services, like a hospital or urgent care—in other words, a safety net.
– Proper flood abatement infrastructure, causing parts of rural Texas to flood every time there is a major storm.
– Money and community support for the public education system, leading to a subpar system in which children move onto the next grade even when they are unable to read at the correct level. When this happens year after year, what we get is graduating students that are not college ready.
– Broadband internet in rural areas, preventing students from doing homework online and using the internet to supplement their inadequate curriculum.
– Industry jobs that pay a living wage, forcing adults to take one or more low-wage jobs just to survive and leaving no opportunities for young people. The result is that many people move away.
Q: Who is one of your biggest inspirations? Why?
Maya Angelou was a huge inspiration to me as a young woman and still is. She empowered me at a time when I believed I had no value as a young woman. I grew up in a religious family where women were not valued. Listening to Maya Angelou added value to my life. Poems of hers that particularly resonated with me were “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me” and “Caged Bird,” and there is also so much power in her book “And Still I Rise.” Every chance I get, I try to empower others and bring value to their lives.
Q: What do you remember about the first time you voted? What motivated you to?
As a younger person I was raised to believe everything was preordained. My parents have always voted for religious conservatives. I was not raised to be empathetic. But as I entered adulthood, my views on life in general began to change. The harsh, cold, preconceived opinions about others that I was indoctrinated with began to fall away. The more I learned about the life experiences of others that were not raised the way I was, the more I wanted to reach out and understand.
I realized there was power in voting, and so I voted. At that moment I felt like I made a difference. Regardless of whether my candidate won, as an individual I had the power to cast a vote. I took back my power. Now it’s my turn to empower others. Empowerment is contagious.
Q: Why should college students, some who may be first time voters, choose to vote for you?
I’m here to help the younger generation. Young people today are very oppressed: by college debt, a lack of jobs and decent wages, and heavy taxes. Young people will inherit all of our debt as a nation, all of our bad policies, and the environment we’ve gutted and destroyed. They will have to repair it all. I’m doing this for them.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
Please reach out to me any time. I am ready and willing to come to you and talk about issues that are important to you, to visit your community and learn what your daily reality is like. Moving to rural Texas changed my life and introduced me to a world I never knew existed, and I want to make that world a better place.
I am also looking for volunteers for my campaign, specifically to run social media and to inform, educate, and inspire people to get involved locally. Anyone interested can contact me.
I encourage all citizens to get involved as soon as possible, whether it’s in a small way or a big way. Some additional important issues of our time are:
– Term limits
– Access to affordable healthcare
– Environment
– Living wage
– Public education
We are all connected, and the actions of selfish politicians affect all of us, regardless of which political party we vote for, or whether we vote at all. We must stand up to be the change we want to see. No one is coming to save us. We must take action now.
District 9
Melissa Wilson (D)
Residence: Pearland, Texas
Occupation: Real Estate and Insurance Broker
Website: melissamechelle.org
Editor’s Note: The Signal did not receive responses from candidate Al Green (D – Incumbent) in time for publication. If received at a later date, this post will be updated to include their responses.
Q: Why did you decide to run for the United States House of Representatives?
I decided to run for the House of Representatives because I found it necessary to allow a millennial such as myself to have a seat at the table to address many important issues such as climate change, student loans and funding for secondary education. I also feel that it is necessary to have someone with the knowledge and background in real estate and insurance which impact most of us. Healthcare is a hot topic in politics at the moment and there is no better person to help tackle this issues head on then someone who writes health insurance policies for a living. I understand what is needed in my industry and how it can have a positive impact that will open up coverage to millions of Americans. College students currently are living on a small budget as they work to get their education and should not have to worry about if they are able to obtain insurance and being able to afford it.
Q: Who is one of your biggest inspirations? Why?
My biggest inspiration is Michelle Obama. She has allowed many young brown girls such as myself that small ounce of hope that we “can” make a change and potentially change the world.
Q: What do you remember about the first time you voted? What motivated you to?
The one thing that motivated me about voting at the age of 18 was remembering the stories of the blood that was shed for us to have that right to vote. Many before us fought long and hard for us to have the ability to not only eat in the same establishments with whites but to have a say in the government and regulations that also impact us. I do believe that many of us take this lightly and don’t actually look at it as a privilege.
Q: Why should college students, some who may be first time voters, choose to vote for you?
I believe college students should give me an opportunity because I care deeply about issues that impact our generation. For example, climate change is an issue that is constantly left off the House of Representatives floor because we don’t have enough of us advocating for it. It is important for everyone to understand that this issue will impact our generation and the generation after us more than it will impact the boomer. The average age of a Congress person is over 55 years of age and senator over 62 years of age. We need more people like us representing us.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
I want you to know that I am the face of you. I was once a struggling college student that did not know any other way to pay for my education other than borrow funds from student loans or obtaining grants. I had parents who could not afford to send me to college. I worked two jobs while attending the University of Houston full time and it was a challenge. I was able to overcome through hard work and allowed it to be my strength when I started into my career. I am from a very small town (Port Arthur) and not many of family members were fortunate enough to graduate from college. I am thankful I was able to show them that it is possible with all cards stacked against me. I want to you understand that although it may seem difficult at the moment, never give up.
District 14
Adrienne Bell (D)
Residence: Friendswood, Texas
Occupation: Teacher
Website: voteforbell.com
Eddie Fisher (D)
Residence: West Columbia, Texas
Occupation: Self-Employed
Website: fisherforcongress.org
Mikal Williams (D)
Residence: Kemah, Texas
Occupation: Attorney
Website: electmikalwilliams.com
Editor’s Note: The Signal did not receive responses from candidates Sanjanetta Barnes (D) and Robert “Puga” Thomas (D) in time for publication. If received at a later date, this post will be updated to include their responses.
Q: Why did you decide to run for the United States House of Representatives?
I decided to run for office due to the voices of the people being ignored in this polarized national political landscape. We need leaders who will bring transformational policies, with fresh perspectives, to the federal government. Policies that support and uplift the American people.
I decided to run for U.S. House of Representatives, District 14 to bring the choice of a candidate who reflects the diverse composition of the district. The incumbent, Randy Weber (R), not only does not represent the diversity in the district, but he has not introduced legislation that improves the lives of District 14 residents.
The incumbent is a pro-Trump supporter, whose entire voting record is against voting rights, women’s rights, pro-NRA, anti-immigrant, anti-LGBT, anti-labor and anti-environment.
To be frank, I decided to run, because I am tired of seeing our government of the People being subverted by corporate special interest groups, politicians more interested in personal self interest above constituents and countries, and a total lack of debate, negotiation, and compromise to pass legislation that continues to move our country to a more perfect Union. One of the first thing we learn about the United States, as children, was eloquently noted by Abraham Lincoln in Gettysburg, that our government is one “of the People, by the People, and for the People.” As I have grown into adulthood, it has seemed to me that that core value has slowly eroded over time. The oath sworn to is one to “protect the Constitution” which instructs us to represent the People, not a single political party, not an administration or party leader, but the People. I decided to run for the United Stated House of Representatives so that I can represent the people of District 14’s interests and work in collaboration with all political sides to do what is best for our district and the United States.
Q: Who is one of your biggest inspirations? Why?
I am fascinated by Harriet Tubman. She escaped from slavery, and returned so that she could free others. That took an extraordinary bravery, and an unquenchable passion for freedom for others.
It is hard to list just one, but I believe in answering questions as they are asked. Barbara Jordan is the one who inspired me the most. I cannot properly represent her inspiration to me. Her opening speech in the Watergate hearings rings true today, “If the society today allows wrongs to go unchallenged, the impression is created that those wrongs have the approval of the majority.”
Another one that inspired me was, “We believe in equality for all, and privileges for none. This is a belief that each American regardless of background has equal standing in the public forum, all of us. Because we believe this idea so firmly, we are an inclusive, rather than an exclusive party. Let everybody come.”
My biggest political inspiration was Gov. Anne Richards. She was principled, tough, had a clear vision, and strived to always do what was best for the citizens. However, I would have to say the biggest inspiration for me was my father, Marshall Williams. He was a member of the 82nd Airborne Division in the Bay of Pigs invasion, later a National Guardsmen that lead a platoon to assist in the integration of Mississippi State University. He became a fireman, police officer, and then a social security disability and bankruptcy attorney. When I was eight years old, he had a major heart attack and he had severe medical issues until he passed in 2010. Through that entire time, he never quit working, and although unsuccessful, ran for local office and judgeship at least three times. He had the determination to never quit and continue to serve those in need and less fortunate even while he himself was in dire straits. He was my hero [and] taught me to strive to be a better person today than I was yesterday.
Q: What do you remember about the first time you voted? What motivated you to?
I voted when I turned 18. For me, it was an honorable responsibility of being older and a contributor to society.
My first vote was in 1976, the voting age was 21 at that time. I was very interested in the presidential election, as it was the first after Watergate when [President Richard] Nixon resigned, and Gerald Ford became president and the Republican nominee for president. Jimmy Carter, a plain spoken, intelligent man from the south, former governor of Georgia on the Democratic nomination. Following the Watergate scandal, and Nixon’s resignation, Ford pardoned Nixon. I have always been a Democrat, and as a journalist during the Watergate investigation, I followed the events very closely. My vote for Jimmy Carter was a vote for an honest man, with values who would bring dignity back to the country. This was the last time that Texas voted for a Democrat for president. I was working for a newspaper post college, not making much money. I bought a small political ad in the newspaper for Jimmy Carter. I was required to state, “This political ad is paid for by Eddie R. Fisher.”
I turned 18 at the end of November in 1993. I was in my senior year at Marine Military Academy. I had hopes of becoming an FA-18 fighter pilot. I remember being excited and anticipating my birthday so that I could cast my first vote in the Texas primary and later that year in the general election. I was highly motivated because the United States had just gone through the 1980’s economic recession, the Iran-Contra scandal, Operation Desert Storm, and the 1992 election of Bill Clinton. It was a political atmosphere not much different than today.
Q: Why should college students, some who may be first time voters, choose to vote for you?
My focus is on the people and our future. I will work to enact laws that bring economic stability to our communities, debt free education, clean air and energy, healthcare for everyone, and criminal justice reform. The people deserve real representation in Congress, someone who is not bought by big money, nor special interests. I will be a representative who will speak out against social, economic, racial, and environmental injustices.
This election is a crossroads for our country. If Democracy does not prevail in this election, we can never overturn the ability for foreign governments to interfere in our elections and have corporate super PACs control elections with overwhelming money. If young voters turn out in large numbers, you can elect someone who will represent your rights to preserve our democracy. Without hyperbole, the current path of the current Republican party will solidify the United States into a fascist oligarchy.
Your vote is a very important thing that I do not view lightly. I don’t believe anyone deserve a vote, or my vote, just because they have a “D” or “R” or any other political party affiliation by their name. One should earn someone’s vote and that’s what I hope to do. College students should vote for me because I have a unique understanding of the current obstacle college students face today. I, myself, am an unconventional college graduate. I didn’t finish my bachelor’s degree work until 2010, from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, “Go Hawks.” I received my Juris Doctorate from South Texas College of Law in 2013. So, I myself am straddled with the same student loan debt, job and wage insecurities, and healthcare and housing concerns as college students entering college and graduating entering the job market today. Career politicians and retirees do not understand the current situation facing late stage generation X through millennials and youth of today like I do. I believe student loan debt is a current crisis. I believe we need to reinvest in public education from K-12, colleges and universities, and have a recommittal to career and technical institutes designed on a non-profit model.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
This movement needs you! Early voting for the primary election is from Feb. 18 – Feb. 28, 2020. Election date is on March 3, 2020.
Global warming needs to be addressed now. The current subsidies for the fossil fuel industry must end immediately and the United States must not only enter the global initiatives but lead on a path that limits warming to less than 1.5 degrees centigrade.
District 14 can play an important role in the transition to renewable energy with solar energy, offshore wind farms and accelerating foreign conversion of coal fired power plants to natural gas until renewable sources can be in place worldwide.
Global warming is real and is primarily caused at the current time by man-made emissions from burning of fossil fuels. The Texas economy is the world leader in production and transmission of natural gas. Liquified natural gas for export from Texas LNG facilities in Sabine Pass and Port Freeport are keys to the transition. Port Freeport needs federal funding to widen and deepen Port Freeport for higher capacity LNG exports. Many Republicans say that the United States cannot do anything about climate change because other countries like China will continue to build coal power plants. This position does not hold merit and Texas, and especially District 14, can lead the way to transitioning from coal and nuclear power in the Pacific Rim, especially in China, Japan and emerging Asian countries.
Your vote and participation matter! Although it may not seem like it at times, you’re vote does matters in every single election be it a primary or general election or for your local city council or U.S. President. This is especially true in your local elections. Participate in the process. If there is an issue you’re passionate about, a candidate whose message resonates with you, or if you just want to make a difference get involved. Knock on doors, make phone calls, message all your friends, and post on social media about the issues and the candidate you support. Your time and voice are just as, if not more, valuable than monetary donations and campaigns need both. I hope to earn your vote in the primary on March 3, 2020 and then again in the November general election. For more information about me and the vision for our coastal region please go to my web site www.electmikalwilliams.com and send us a message with your comments and concerns you would like addressed.
District 18
Michael Allen (D)
Residence: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Landscape Architecture
Website: michael4congress.com
Donovan Boson (D)
Residence: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Public Administrator
Website: donovan4us.com
Marc Flores (D)
Residence: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Builder
Website: marcfloresforcongress.com
Jerry Ford Sr. (D)
Residence: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Business Owner and Former Assistant Fire Chief
Website: jerryfordsrforcongress.com
Stevens Orozco (D)
Residence: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Teacher and Activist
Website: orozco2020.com
Bimal Patel (D)
Residence: Houston, Texas
Occupation: Optometrist
Website: bimalforcongress.com
Editor’s Note: The Signal did not receive responses from candidate Sheila Jackson Lee (D – Incumbent) in time for publication. If received at a later date, this post will be updated to include their responses.
Update: 1/30/20 – This article has been updated with candidate Stevens Orozco’s responses.
Q: Why did you decide to run for the United States House of Representatives?
Because I care about justice, and care and support for citizens, and I care about people and what makes them happy and want to live in a great society.
I say it often but I am running for us! I was born and raised in the 18th district and after grad school was able to live all across the country helping people from all walks of life get the services and resources they needed as a program director and public administrator for nonprofits. It was upon my return, I realized things were still the same despite the need for meaningful change.
After nearly 25 years in office with the same incumbent I am just tired of our community looking and feeling the way it does. I literally get angry knowing that nearly 45% of our neighbors in the 18th district are underemployed, minimum wage earners, or unemployed and [Congresswoman] Sheila Jackson Lee hasn’t put forth any legislation to increase the minimum wage, ever. We all know one of these people. they’re folks like my mom who raised me while making $5.75 in the 80s and 90s until she was able to get a better paying job, or some of my classmates who’ve been making $7.25 since 2009 – the last time we increased the wage.
I realized with Congresswoman Lee in office we’ve lost not just schools but entire school districts, half a dozen health clinics and pharmacies, several grocery stores, transit routes, and job centers. To that end, we now lead not just the state but the entire nation in infant and maternal mortality related to childbirth and have one of the worst living indexes, greatest concentration of food deserts, and health disparities yet still no legislation. I resolved to do something to be and bring the change I wanted to see.
I’m no businessman or doctor. I’m the son of a single-parent, a first generation college graduate, and I’ve worked my way up from minimum wage to a decent salary. However, like many people in the district, I’ve been unemployed and have had to rely on government assistance, experienced homelessness, and have had extended periods where I had to move home as an adult. I am extremely sympathetic to what a lot of people deal with and are going through daily not because I work with them but because I’ve walked in their shoes.
Life is hard for so many of us and I don’t think what we’ve got is working so I’m running so one of us can stand and fight for all of us – the working poor; the college graduates straddled with debt; the single parents; the care givers who struggle with medical bills; those with limited healthy food options; the middle income earners who just need a fairer system, and those grappling with rising costs of living without rising paychecks.
I am running for U.S. Congress to represent the 800,000 people that live in the 18th Congressional District in a manner that they can be proud of. Too often, we see too many elected officials making decisions that suit their own desires in lieu of working to address the most pertinent issues of the people they represent.
Our nation was founded audaciously in the name of equality, ensuring every citizen the right to “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” [President Thomas] Jefferson’s meritocratic ideals become void, however, when individuals lack the resources necessary for this pursuit.
I am running for congress because I believe that it is time to wage war on poverty and the disenfranchised. I think that in the wealthiest and most powerful country, it is devastating to know that while I’m sleeping in my warm bed every night, many families in my district are at the bottom of almost every social indicator, education, heart disease, employment, income, and housing to name a few.
Additionally, [Congresswoman] Sheila Jackson Lee has taken millions from corporations. From education, transportation, and health, to name a few. Sheila Jackson Lee’s income has increased by 50% every year, making her worth millions.
The next Congressperson must help create a government that works for everyone and not just corporations and those at the top. One of my first action as Congressman would be to introduce the most significant anti-corruption bill in our history that involves ending lobbying as we know it, blocking the revolving door between industry and Washington, requiring everyone who runs for federal office to submit their tax returns to the Federal Election Committee for review by the public.
I’m running for Congress because, Congresswoman Shelia Jackson Lee has represented herself more than the district for almost 30 years, and her recent scandal of terminating one of her aides for reporting that she was raped by another employee has severely limited her ability to provide the kind of representation that we have come to expect and deserve. We can, and we must do better.
I believe that we are facing the most crucial moment in human history. The effects of climate change, inequality, and white supremacy have reached a literal boiling point that we must confront and overcome. As an activist in Houston, I learned that elected officials will wait you out when being held accountable. The public comment opportunities at City Hall, County Commissioner’s Court, School Boards, and even in Austin’s State Government, would just be a formality that is granted to the people. Once the people are done speaking, there would be no response and the politicians move on with their agenda.
I decided to run in order to elevate the conversation beyond the control of the establishment politics and make each official aware that the progressive movement isn’t going away and will not remain silenced through formal routines. This campaign is about pushing back against politics as usual and giving ourselves the best chance to save the planet.
We are at a turning point in our history and we need someone to inspire, innovate and come up with ideas that will help us move forward. As a doctor and a former biology student, I am passionate about healthcare and the environment. We have about a decade before it’s too late to reverse the impacts of climate change, and need a representative who will make the environment a priority. We also need to make sure our chemical and food policies are not making us sicker and hold companies accountable.
Q: Who is one of your biggest inspirations? Why?
Martin Luther King Jr. because he’s a fighter, and a leader, and he just knows what to do when everyone else seems to be lost.
One of my biggest inspirations is entrepreneur and restauranteur Marcus Davis. He and I both graduated from Kashmere High School and Texas Southern University. He can easily be lauded for his business acumen but I admire his commitment to reaching back and lifting up his community while still being grounded in the midst of wild success. Though I didn’t meet him until I was an adult, it was the first time I met someone who made me legit aspirational especially after learning his story and how he got to where he is. It doesn’t hurt his red beans and rice at The Breakfast Klub are off the chain too [Laughs].
My uncle, Federico Peña, who served as Mayor of Denver and U.S. Secretary of Transportation, is one of the people that inspires me the most. He has always worked hard to serve his community and his country in a way that he knew was befitting of a true public servant, that doesn’t adversely affect the trust or wellbeing of the people. He has also always been available to guide me through my career and personal life with general advice; do your homework, be prepared, do the right thing, and make the best decision. This mindset guides me in every point of my personal and professional life.
Robert Francis Kennedy (“RFK”) is one of my biggest inspirations. RFK was the rarest of politicians—both a pragmatist who knew how to get the job done and an unwavering idealist who could inspire millions. RFK’s speech telling a predominately African American crowd in Indiana about the assassination of Martin Luther King remains a chilling and compassionate classic of American politics, capped by RFK quoting Aeschylus from memory, “Even in our sleep, pain which cannot forget/falls drop by drop upon the heart / until in our own despair / against our will / comes wisdom / through the awful grace of God.” Robert Francis Kennedy is one of my biggest inspirations because, in the aftermath of his brother’s tragic death, RFK became a fearless champion for the underrepresented.
My biggest inspirations have been those in the fight for social justice. Whether it is James Baldwin with his writing, Ida B. Wells with her journalism, Bob Marley with his music, or the activists and community leaders who I have met during my time working in the community. All of the sources of inspiration for me come from those who have been pushing back against oppressive systems that need to be abolished and dismantled in order to build something new that will uplift all communities and establish justice.
Serena Williams. I’m a huge tennis fan and I think what she has accomplished given some of her obstacles is amazing. Tennis (and to an extent life) is a mental sport and she has inspired me to persevere and keep chasing my dreams.
Q: What do you remember about the first time you voted? What motivated you to?
Change.
It was the presidential primaries in 08. I was a sophomore at Texas Southern and we were hosting the caucus. I remember being in the arena when Sheila Jackson Lee tried to get people to vote for Hillary Clinton and the arena literally booed her off the stage. I remember thinking that we have this amazing opportunity to elect someone who was inspirational, qualified, and who looked like me to office so why stand in the way of that.
My grandparents’ grandparents were slaves and the idea of me actually knowing people in 2008, who knew and grew up knowing former slaves, and now had the opportunity to vote for someone who would have been a slave was not lost to me. It was historic. It was euphoric and I can say my vote and my generation was the generation that elected Barack Obama.
I remember being nervous, not knowing how it worked or what I needed to do. And yet, I was motivated to vote because I knew that by voting it was my way to be part of this country’s amazing democracy, and have my voice heard in my government and in my community.
I have been voting for over 40 years. I remember wanting to vote so that my pain of hopelessness and voice could be heard.
Yes I do. It was 2004 and I had just turned 18. I voted for John Kerry because I was against the War in Iraq and the Bush Administration’s decision making during those times of fear and panic were extremely questionable to me. I did not see a government that was operating in good faith nor transparency. I wanted change.
I was 19. I remember being so excited and feeling like an adult. I remember it was my first time voting for president. At the time the country was at war in Iraq, and I remember how much I opposed our country being there and that was a big motivating factor for me.
Q: Why should college students, some who may be first time voters, choose to vote for you?
Because I know what’s up [laughs]. And I care about what people think and [why] we think them.
I would ask everyone to follow the money and the background of candidates because it’s important. I am no clout chaser. I am just a regular pragmatic guy who has spent over a decade spending government money solving issues within our community and I believe that I have the vision and experience to come up with legislation – and to fight for legislation – that comprehensively improves our lives.
My only goal and ambition to make our lives better by putting more money in our pockets, cutting our healthcare costs, getting and keeping content certified teachers in our schools, reducing our student loan debt, creating term limits for elected officials, and setting us up for a greener future so that the next storm doesn’t wipe us out. Most of the candidates have similar ideas but I believe I’m the most authentic and have no special interests groups or pacs funding my campaign.
College students should vote for two reasons. First, the young people in our country can be some of our brightest and most vocal citizens, and voting allows the voice of our country’s young people will be heard. Their voices deserve to be heard. Second, I believe that I am in touch with the needs and ambitions of today’s youth, and have comprehensive policies prepared to help benefit them – not only today and throughout their educational careers – but throughout their entire lives.
I believe that the American Dream has become a monopoly as access to education becomes increasingly strenuous on the working class due to the rising costs. Tuition costs now are around 300% higher than they were 30 years ago. The responsibility for covering the costs of higher education used to belong mainly to the state, but the State has gone from paying 80% of college tuition for students to only 50%.
Congress is seeking to cut the Pell Grant by approximately 30%, despite the 8 million students that depend on it. The debt that students will live with for decades prevents them from being able to buy homes and invest in retirement accounts such as 401K, which would aid in stimulating the economy. It is not just about how student loans affect the students directly, but the businesses that suffer from a lack of spending. Furthermore, living with this kind of debt prevents students from feeling their economic standing is stable enough to marry or have children, which will affect the next generation as well.
As Congressman, I will vigorously attack this issue and address the student debt crisis in America. Sheila Jackson Lee has [accepted] million in campaign donations, which includes private colleges and universities, so she is not working for her constituency because the people in her district are hurting and last in education.
I believe that we are borrowing the planet for the future generation. My high school and middle school students that I teach are the future. The college students right now working hard for their degrees are the future. I am the candidate that is asking for the opportunity to be their fiercest advocate. I see the need to recreate the systems that have hurt us for generations and leave in its place a new way of doing public service. I believe we should always work in government with the purpose to pass the torch down. That is why I believe in term limits as the most progressive candidate in this race. I believe that we must save the planet and prepare the future generations to take over that responsibility when it is their time. I am here to plant the seeds that they will benefit from when it grows.
I graduated grad school less than a decade ago. I am still paying back my college loans. We really need to take action on the student loan crisis and tackle the cost of college education. Public eduction should not be for profit. As you enter the workforce after college, you also want to make sure there a good paying jobs. Automation and artificial intelligence is a serious threat to the future of the job market. You are also going to want to make sure you have a healthy planet to live on. Cleaning up our air, especially in Houston and around the refineries is going to be a priority of mine.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
That I care and I want to know what matters to you guys, not me.
New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) and I share the same birthday (Oct. 13) and happen to share very very similar attitudes when it comes to politics, humor, and hate for people who think doing common sense things are somehow progressive. So if you like her, think of me as the Texas version.
Unlike the other candidates who all chose to pay $3,800 to file and represent you, I met with over 3,800 voters of the district and they signed the petition to have my name placed on the ballot – similar to AOC – because I believe there’s more value in people than money. Text Don4us to 31996 follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and IG @Donovan4us or visit our website www.Donovan4us.com.
Yes, please vote. It is so easy and very empowering. Text VOTE to 833-937-0700 or visit www.harrisvotes.com to find your nearest polling location. Don’t forget that the 2020 primary is March 3; and your voice deserves to be heard.
I’ve always tried to bring people together to find solutions to our shared challenges, regardless of our differences. I have done this as a small-business owner for more than 25 years, making sure that we could bring innovative services and solutions to our community through entrepreneurship.
I also did it as the Assistant Fire Chief of the City of Houston, where I saw my colleagues, not as Republicans or Democrats, but my fellow Houstonians who had a responsibility to protect and deliver for our community. Moreover, I have volunteered in the 18th district, working with kids coaching basketball, baseball, and raising money to buy school supplies and meals for our kids.
To replace a figure like Shelia Jackson Lee, who has served in Congress for nearly 30 years, we need someone with the proven leadership experience to step in and deliver from day one. I believe that I am that person because of my experiences as a public servant, a business owner and community volunteer.
I am grateful for this opportunity and can only ask for your help to spread the word and join us. Visit our website at Orozco2020.com and connect with us. We are here to make history in Houston as we head towards the fight to save our future and our planet. I am in this fight because I believe that we can win.
Your voice matters and every vote does count. Make sure you research the candidates and pick the one that resonates with you, hopefully me! Our democracy depends on all of us!
District 27
Charlie Jackson (D)
Residence: Corpus Christi, Texas
Occupation: Businessman
Website: charliejacksonforcongress.com
Editor’s Note: The Signal did not receive responses from candidate Ricardo “Rick” De La Fuente (D) in time for publication. If received at a later date, this post will be updated to include their responses.
Q: Why did you decide to run for the United States House of Representatives?
Sixty years ago, my parents struggled to make ends meet for their growing brood in Texas but never lost faith in their neighbors, community, and country. Over the years they raised a family with strong values and a belief that America is the land of opportunity for anyone willing to work hard. They believed in the promise that government would serve to support economic and social good of regular people.
But that promise isn’t being kept, and we need leaders willing to take on the folks in Washington and restore people’s trust in a government that works for them and not the interests of the rich and powerful.
We need progressive leaders who will find solutions [to] address the biggest problems facing our nation and move the country forward in coming years. We need leaders who understand economic development, small business, and the challenges of working families. As an openly gay leader, I want a government that reflects our Texas values and an economy that works for all.
2020 will be pivotal year for Texas and the nation, and we need leaders who have the courage to tackle big issues without being sidetracked by the ideological partisanship that has gone on for so long.
Like my own family, my neighbors are worth fighting for. It’s why I champion workers and small businesses, why I’m willing to take on big challenges like Health Care, Climate Change, and Budget Reform, why I stand with the weak and marginalized. And, it’s why I’m running to serve Texas’ 27th Congressional District, one of the most beautiful and historic parts of The Lone Star State stretching from the coast to near the Capitol.
Q: Who is one of your biggest inspirations? Why?
Growing up, I always admired Barbara Jordan. She fought for regular Americans with a voice and spirit that moved people to action.
Q: What do you remember about the first time you voted? What motivated you to?
I became interested in politics during an elementary school “mock election” and have been hooked ever since. I met my local congressman, Bob Eckhardt, while taking classes at Lee College and later found myself clerking for the House Energy and Commerce Committe in DC before returning to earn a BA in Government.
Q: Why should college students, some who may be first time voters, choose to vote for you?
We need change in Washington. We can’t stand idly by while real issues such as health care for all, climate change, endless wars, and rising inequality continue. I’ll be representing a district that covers the Texas coast from Corpus Christi to Houston, where many of the same issues need to be addressed.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
District 36
Rashad Lewis (D)
Residence: Jasper, Texas
Occupation: Self-Employed
Facebook: facebook.com/LewisforCongress36th
Q: Why did you decide to run for the United States House of Representatives?
I couldn’t stand idly by while our political leadership puts partisan interests ahead of the interests of our district. I’m fighting for my district because this is where my neighbors, my family, and my friends live.
I’m running for Texas’ Congressional District 36 because our district and our nation needs leadership that will put the interests of people ahead of the interests of partisan politics.
Q: Who is one of your biggest inspirations? Why?
I couldn’t limit it to just one because, honestly, my biggest inspiration for running is my kids. I worry about their future, but it’s their innocence and happiness that inspire me to be a better man. I want them to inherit a better world.
Q: What do you remember about the first time you voted? What motivated you to?
The first ballot I cast was in the 2008 presidential election. I was excited to [be] part of history. I remember feeling a call to action. Since then, I became more involved in local politics and saw the need to run for office myself.
Q: Why should college students, some who may be first time voters, choose to vote for you?
College students and first time voters have the power to determine the outcome of this election. That’s a big responsibility, but it is also a challenge. For a long time now, politicians have asked us to sacrifice for the sake of furthering deadlocked, inefficient power politics.
I’m asking for college students to vote for me and exercise their power to change politics as usual.
Q: Is there anything you would like our readers to know?
Our campaign is growing and is interested in hearing from students at the University of Houston-Clear Lake. If you would like to join our list of volunteers or if you would like to learn more, please send us a message and follow our campaign at:
Instagram: @LewisForCongress
Facebook: @LewisForCongress36th
EDITOR’S NOTE: Candidates were contacted with Q&A survey questions in December 2019 and January 2020. The deadline to submit responses was Jan. 10, 2020. However, if responses are received at a later date, they will be added.
