Q&A: Meet the Democratic primary candidates running for Texas House District 149

Why are you running for office?

Texas House District 149 is facing real challenges, from underfunded public schools, limited access to affordable healthcare, unstable housing, aging infrastructure and limited opportunities for economic development and growth. Our district deserves a leader who will show up, listen, and lead with intention, and deliver tangible outcomes.

What are your qualifications for why you'd be a strong candidate in this role?

I lead a school district that has complex challenges, but I also see opportunities. I have had to work across differences while advocating for the needs of our students, families and our community. This allows me to translate priorities into effective policy.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

Fully funding public schools, access to affordable, high-quality healthcare, affordable housing and economic development, including workforce development and support for small businesses.

What are the biggest challenges facing this district, and how do you plan to address these issues?

Economic security, access to high-quality health care, and affordable housing. I will support legislation that increases the minimum wage, champion legislation that would provide low to no-cost health care and seek funding to support affordable housing and first-time home ownership.

What projects are most important for the legislature to focus on for the future of Texas?

The future of Texas lies in restoring women’s reproductive rights, creating real economic opportunities that lead to living-wage careers and fully funding public schools.

What do you see as the greatest challenge for Texas in the next 5 years?

The polarization of political parties in Texas has placed party before communities. We need to move back to a place where lawmakers work together to address the needs of all Texans.

Why are you running for office?

I strongly know I can make a meaningful change in my community. I am highly community-oriented. And currently writing a book about the community, daily life and economic activities of the people in Alief, and have been in many development programs and events that have contributed to the development of our community …

What are your qualifications for why you’d be a strong candidate in this role?

What qualifies me for this position is that, for nearly 30 years, I have been a continuous resident of this community, witnessing its growth, challenges and enduring spirit. My commitment to District 149 Alief is not only personal but also professional, as I serve as an educator …

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

As an educator, I stand with our struggling teachers and for the improved safety of our schools in Alief. A. Equitable and obtainable healthcare for all. B. Economic safety, security and support of diverse businesses. C. Legal and accessible immigration regulation and reconciliation. Our district is losing population, which will be an issue I will work to address as well strongly.

What are the biggest challenges facing this district and how do you plan to address these issues?

District 149 is experiencing a decline in population, and I am committed to addressing this issue with seriousness, as I am familiar with the community’s needs and challenges. I was employed by the federal government to conduct the 2020 census. I was also employed by the federal government to conduct …

What projects are most important for the legislature to focus on for the future of Texas?

Why are you running for office?

I’m running to keep delivering results for Alief and Southwest Houston; stronger schools, safer streets and more opportunity. I’ve built partnerships that bring resources home, and I’ll keep fighting to make sure District 149 isn’t forgotten in Austin.

What are your qualifications for why you’d be a strong candidate in this role?

I’m a longtime state representative, vice chair of the House Insurance Committee, and founder of the International Management District. I’ve passed laws to protect consumers and strengthen workforce systems and I’ve helped secure major local projects that improve safety and quality of life.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

My top priorities are: fully funding public schools, improving public safety and street infrastructure and protecting families from rising costs, especially insurance and healthcare. I’ll keep expanding job and training pathways so our community can thrive.

What are the biggest challenges facing this district and how do you plan to address these issues?

Big challenges are affordability, flooding and infrastructure needs and safety on our roads and in neighborhoods. My plan is to bring state resources home, partner with the city and local organizations and pass practical laws that strengthen schools, improve public safety standards, and protect consumers.