Q&A: Alexander Hale and Tina Cohen to face off in May Republican runoff for U.S. House District 7

Why are you running for office?

I'm running because TX-07 deserves a representative who will actually fight for Houston's interests ... I bring an honest, practical perspective that our district’s been missing.

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

I have significant public and private sector experience. For years in Houston, I've served as a consultant resolving challenging/distressed situations for major companies. We assess problems quickly and efficiently. This pragmatic skillset translates directly to Congress. Our country needs people who can address divisions and solve problems.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

Educational excellence: Every TX-07 child deserves access to a quality education. School choice and innovative approaches are key to improving student results. Public safety: Back local authorities, oppose soft-on-crime policies, and boldly address the crime affecting Houston neighborhoods. Fiscal responsibility: We must cut wasteful spending and end failed government programs.

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

The biggest challenge facing TX-07 is representation that doesn't match our district's priorities. I will serve as a representative who actually addresses local priorities: protecting our energy economy, securing the border, supporting law enforcement and offering honest analysis on tough issues like the national debt rather than empty talking points.

With district boundaries and representation changing, how will you ensure your constituents have the resources they need?

TX-07 spans parts of both Harris and Fort Bend counties, with diverse communities that have different needs. I'll maintain a visible, accessible presence across the district through town halls and will prioritize understanding each community's specific concerns: from infrastructure needs in rapidly growing areas to crime clusters within neighborhoods.

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

Managing explosive growth while maintaining reliable infrastructure—especially our power grid and water systems. Texas added more people than any state, but our infrastructure hasn't kept pace. We need massive investment in grid reliability and water security before the next crisis hits.

Why are you running for office?

The most significant issues in TX-07 are affordability, public safety, border security and parental rights in education. I am running to give families a rep who listens and delivers results. Unlike career politicians, I bring a new perspective, real-world experience and a focus on accountability and practical solutions.

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

I bring real-world experience as a wife, mother, business owner, community leader and advocate for families in TX-07. I have managed budgets and engaged with local leaders, giving me practical insight into issues like education, public safety and affordability. I am committed to accountable, results-driven representation.

If elected, what will be your top priorities?

My top priorities are restoring affordability and economic growth, securing the border and protecting public safety and defending parents’ rights in education. I will fight federal overreach, cut wasteful spending and focus on practical solutions that put families first, ensuring TX-07 residents thrive and feel represented.