Meet the Democratic primary candidates for Texas House District 130

Why are you running for office?

I am running because our elected majority has let us down. They do not work to benefit all Texans and do not hold corrupt colleagues accountable. I love to help people and want to fight for all Texans. We need to work together to solve complex problems.

What would your top priorities be if elected?

Affordable healthcare; Ensure public schools receive necessary funding and eliminate political interference in school curricula; Repeal abortion prohibitions and protect Texas women who have pregnancy complications; Hold corrupt officials accountable; Address mass shootings; Legalize marijuana for medical use; Enact legislation based on data and expert testimony instead of political whims

What are the biggest challenges facing District 130?

District 130 is a great place to live! We need to make sure our schools are properly funded, operating without political interference (book bans and removal of inconvenient science subject matter like climate change). We are fortunate to have avoided high-profile mass shootings but need to be vigilant and proactive.

How will you ensure your district is prepared for extreme weather and flooding?

I have spoken with [Harris County Flood Control District]; they say newer housing developments (1990s onward) fare flood events much better due to stormwater modeling. Much of District 130 is comprised of newer construction. However, extreme weather events are becoming more severe and common. We need to continue working with HCFCD to implement improvements.

If elected, what will your priorities be regarding property taxes and housing affordability?

One of the reasons District 130 is such a desirable place to live is because of the relatively low cost of living compared with most big cities. We need to be good stewards of taxpayer money, eliminating government waste and making sure that taxes are not overly burdensome.

Why are you running for office?

We desperately need new leadership that serves the working class and prioritizes affordability. I refuse to let the federal level distract us from the needs of our local communities. As state representative, it would be my honor to give back to the community that I grew up in.

What would your top priorities be if elected?

Restore reproductive freedom—Codify Roe so women can get the care they need in life-threatening situations. Fight for workers and unions—Raise the minimum wage and establish the right to collectively bargain for good wages and benefits. Fully fund public education—Increase teacher pay and reduce class sizes.

What are the biggest challenges facing District 130?

Our public education system is under attack. It is unacceptable that kids in my district lost buses for a year due to budget cuts. They had to cross busy streets, and many were hit by oncoming traffic. The state needs to keep up with its fair share of the funding.

How will you ensure your district is prepared for extreme weather and flooding?

I support weatherizing and connecting to the national grid so we can receive help from other states when we need it most. I also support investing in flood infrastructure, especially for our most vulnerable neighborhoods, and coordinating with local emergency management officials on disaster preparedness.