Texas and TexaAs a member of the Texas House of Representatives nothing is more offensive than the misuse of power and influence against the Constitution we have sworn to protect. The values and democracy as we understand them should not be compromised or undermined!
It’s unfortunate that politics was coupled with the devastating disaster in Central Texas which delayed the care and relief for citizens faced with this devastation. I mourn with the families and the communities during this great tragedy and loss. It is my belief that these events should not have been used to advance one of the most divisive political issues in government – redistricting. In fact, there should have been an immediate response from the executive branch to provide as much relief as possible to the families and communities affected.
This neglectful governing seems to have been borrowed from those of less interest in our citizens’ pain vs divisive politics. This direction demonstrates a true weakness of the leadership! I would have hoped there would be a higher standard of governing. It is clear the loss and absence of vision is killing our State!
While having a quorum break is deafening as well as disappointing, we must never yield on the principle of democracy. The thought and act of resistance must always be considered as a last option to these encounters. We can never support and accept a hostile takeover of our government from the people and the freedoms we enjoy. When facing a political crisis our actions must demonstrate an unrelenting commitment to democracy and the rights of our citizens. While we knew as Legislators, we were unable to stop the vote and the outcome of the vote – we had to elevate and awaken the citizenry of this hostile takeover of the rights of voters by an unfair and rushed redistricting plan.
History continues to show that it does matter who represents us, so that our voices and votes will not be silenced!
For those who questioned the walk out – ask yourself if you would have realized your rights were being trampled on through this unprecedented redistricting process; would you want us to remain quiet or stand up! For those who thought we should have stayed away longer – do you realize that there was no way to block the vote but only delay it. Our goal was to engage the public in the debate, and we were successful! The involvement and discussion of the citizens allow each of us to get involved in shaping the debate as well as the actions they deem important.
I believe our government must remain “by and for the people”! When we lose the essence of democracy with a checks and balanced government, we start to erode our democracy.
For the record, I offered an alternative and legitimate plan during the floor debate that recognized communities of interest, geographic and population growth shifts, to ensure the voices of our voters are heard and respected – instead of gerrymandering to guarantee a particular political outcome.
Finally, let me remind you that Texas and Texans deserve better! We should take care of Central Texas and the other important issues affecting Texans’ everyday lives. Redistricting should have been left to the appropriate time after the 2030 Census as it has been done in the past.
This country and state have survived some awful history – and to not protect the rights, the wins and gains would be irresponsible as well as callus for generations to come. We must resist and refuse to let external influences become internal ones to our Texas way and processes.
I learned early in life – freedom is not free! We have a responsibility to be good stewards – to “put back” and “give back” with the same effort and legacy left to each of us!
Our goal must be to protect our wins and to build a sense of community, hope, and civility to create our best Texas! A Texas built on integrity, character, and service.
I encourage you to join me to stand up for Texas and Texans!
