Q&A: Meet the Democratic primary candidates for U.S. Rep. District 18

Why are you running for this position?

I am running to place people over politics and to deliver the results our community deserves. I was born, raised, and educated in this district. As an attorney and servant-leader, I have a deep understanding of the challenges facing our region and the vision to take on those challenges.

What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them if elected?

My priorities in Congress will be expanding access to quality, affordable health care; expanding economic opportunity for small-business owners and those seeking jobs in an evolving economy; lowering the costs of higher education; and securing our democracy, protecting voting rights and ending gerrymandering that dilutes the votes of communities of color.

What are your top priorities regarding the nation’s economy?

As a Houston City Council member, I created the Women and Minority-Owned Business Task Force to facilitate fair access to capital and supportive resources. I supported the adoption of higher wages and improved protections for workers on city of Houston construction projects. I will bring these same economic values to Congress.

How would you ensure your constituents have access to the health care services they need?

My priorities include improving Affordable Care Act coverage; preserving the Medicare and Social Security benefits our seniors rely on; ensuring private medical decisions about women’s reproductive health are truly private; codifying the protections of Roe v. Wade; fighting abortion bounties and preventing the stalking of people seeking abortion care.

How would you build productive relationships across districts and party lines?

I served as an at-large Houston City Council member—a nonpartisan role. That meant serving everyone in America’s most diverse city. Our issues always require cooperation. I adhere to the mantra—It is amazing what you can do when you are not concerned about who gets the credit.

Why are you running for this position?

I am not a politician. Too often, our leaders are only talking and are not seen on the scene. Our future is at risk and the person who has held this seat for 28 years, cannot be the person that will lead us into the future when the risk begins...

What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them if elected?

Criminal justice reform—Focus on the recidivism crisis; Entrepreneurship expansion—Bringing in funding and resources to support small businesses; Community service—Supporting seniors and those in need with affected support and aid on a daily basis, not only in disaster times.

What are your top priorities regarding the nation’s economy?

The national debt is a priority as it will fall on the shoulders of our kids if we do not get this in line and make the right decisions. Social entitlements such as Social Security must be protected for our seniors and those that have paid into their share, but...

How would you ensure your constituents have access to the health care services they need?

I support universal health care but I will fight for employer health support such as paid leave. No one should have to choose going to the doctor, or going to work. We will fight for farmers to market products, fresh food groceries at affordable prices.

Why are you running for this position?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire.

What are the biggest challenges facing the district, and how would you address them if elected?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire.

What are your top priorities regarding the nation’s economy?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire.

How would you ensure your constituents have access to the health care services they need?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire.

How would you build productive relationships across districts and party lines?

Candidate did not respond to questionnaire.