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Judith Zaffirini and Cortney Jones will appear on the ballot in the March Democratic primary election for the Texas Senate District 21 seat.
Why it matters
The winner will run against Julie Dahlberg, the sole Republican candidate, in November to determine who will represent the district.
Early voting starts Feb. 17, and election day is March 3. For more information on voting procedures, visit your county's website. For more election coverage, visit www.communityimpact.com.
What you need to know
Candidates were asked to keep responses within 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
*Marks the incumbent
Communication specialist, record-setting bill-passer, PhD educator, and experienced advocate for families, students, and workers.
Why are you running for office?
I am running for re-election based on my record, experience, and ability to continue making a difference for our families. That includes casting 76,000 consecutive votes; passing 1,500 bills—more than any legislator in state history; and, as a Democrat, being the highest bill passer in a Republican-dominated legislature.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
My priorities are education; health and human services; and responsive, effective representation of SD 21 families. I advance these goals by passing critical legislation, securing funding, opposing harmful proposals, and engaging continually with constituents of all ages, advocates, and local leaders to address their needs, interests, and priorities—not mine.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district? How do you plan to address them?
District 21’s challenges include poverty; chronic illnesses/conditions; water supply and infrastructure needs; electric grid reliability; access to education and health care, especially in rural areas; rising housing costs; workforce readiness; and transportation demands. I will continue to address these by building coalitions to pass relevant legislation and secure funding.
What projects are most important for the legislature to focus on for the future of Texas?
Important projects for Texas include strengthening education from early childhood through higher education; expanding access to education and health care, especially in rural areas; enhancing water and energy infrastructure; improving transportation and ports of entry; supporting workforce and economic development; addressing housing affordability and disaster preparedness; and protecting our environment.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
I will continue to involve residents via my open-door policy and responding to all emails, letters, calls, and meeting requests; and my daily posts, weekly eNewsletter, and annual report. With accountability and transparency I embrace my mantra, Serviam! (I shall serve.) I am here to serve, not to be served.
Nonprofit Executive, Policy Advisor, State Council Appointee, Community Leader
Why are you running for office?
I’m running to serve Texas Senate District 21 with integrity, collaboration, and experience. My work in nonprofit leadership, policy advising, and community engagement has prepared me to thoughtfully represent residents, elevate local voices, and help shape practical policies that support families, economic stability, and long-term community wellbeing.
What would your top priorities be if elected?
My top priorities would be strengthening public education, promoting economic stability for working families, and expanding access to healthcare, including mental health services, through responsible, data-informed policymaking.
What are the biggest challenges facing this district? How do you plan to address them?
District 21 faces rising costs of living, healthcare access gaps, and uneven economic opportunity across urban and rural communities. I plan to address these challenges by working collaboratively with local leaders, investing in education and workforce development, and advancing practical policies that support families, small businesses, and regional infrastructure.
What projects are most important for the legislature to focus on for the future of Texas?
The legislature should focus on sustainable education funding, expanded healthcare and mental health access, workforce development, and resilient infrastructure. These investments must be guided by community input and long-term thinking to ensure Texas families, businesses, and regions can thrive now and for generations to come.
How do you plan to involve residents in the decision-making process?
I plan to lead with listening. I will engage residents through community forums, stakeholder conversations, and ongoing feedback channels, ensuring diverse voices help shape policy. My approach centers transparency, accessibility, and collaboration so decisions reflect the lived realities of the people I serve.
