Why are you running to represent Texas Senate District 4?
In just the last few years, [Senate District] 4 has been named one of the best places to live and work in the nation, established a new medical school, and outpaced the rest of the nation in economic growth. As your state senator, I want to continue to deliver pro-Texas policies that make our continued success possible.
What are the biggest challenges facing District 4, and how would you address those if elected?
The economy in our region is strong, but as a nation, we are experiencing record inflation, a fentanyl crisis and a looming recession. That is why I am focused on keeping Texas the most pro-business, pro-family state in the country, and that begins in the state Senate. In my next term, I will work for additional property tax relief; expanding educational and workforce opportunities; and strong, secure borders.
With statewide reports of teacher shortages and many students not yet performing at pre-pandemic levels, how would you support the state’s public education system in the upcoming legislative session?
As chair of the Senate Committee on Education, I believe the future begins in the classroom. I have met with teachers around Texas, and introduced a Texas Teacher Bill of Rights that creates financial incentives and influence in schools. I’m also working on a Texas Parental Bill of Rights ensuring parents are the chief decision makers in their children’s education. Working together, we can make positive changes for the 5 million students in Texas schools.
How would you ensure your constituents have access to health care services they need?
In 2019, I passed HB 2867 establishing the Sam Houston State Medical School, with an emphasis on training in-demand primary care physicians, and they are already increasing class sizes. And because staffing is one of the biggest challenges in the field, I have created incentives for workforce training programs and funding for health care professionals throughout the state, ensuring all Texans get the care they need.
With new federal legislation bringing funding to Texas, how would you ensure district communities have access to this money if needed?
Texas sends more to the federal government than we receive, so returning Texas tax dollars to the state is always positive. As a lawmaker, I am committed to providing property tax relief and addressing school safety needs. As a member of the Senate Committee on Finance, I will also continue to prioritize flood mitigation projects, electric reliability, and trying to stop the flow of drugs and violence from the border before it reaches our communities.
With the state seeing its deadliest school shooting in Uvalde this past year, what will you do to ensure this cannot happen again in Texas schools?
As chair of Senate Education and co-chair of the Committee to Protect All Texans, school safety improvements are at the top of my agenda. Since the tragedy in Uvalde, I have met with teachers, students, parents, administrators and law enforcement to discuss school hardening and security protocols to keep our kids safe. Every campus is unique, but the Legislature will enact thorough audits and inspections, giving parents and teachers confidence that schools are secure.
