Here's how I vote in Texas
Clear eyes, full bush
I vote Democrat. Pretty much all the way down the ballot. For what it's worth, I haven't always. My first presidential vote was for...you guessed it, George W. Bush. And in the past, I have chosen Republicans down the ballot at times when they better aligned with my values. (Although I'll be honest, that hasn't happened in a while.)
I do not think every Democrat is wonderful. I do not think this party perfectly represents me. I do not enjoy getting political texts from 47 different numbers every election season. I also do not think every Republican is a disaster. I live in Texas and these are my neighbors and friends. I work hard to be tender with people and tough on systems.
But I vote according to my values. And right now, my values consistently lead me here - and typically "here" is quite blue.
Public education. My two daughters attend public school. I'm also a daughter of two public school teachers. I believe public schools should be well-funded, teachers should be trusted and supported, and public money should strengthen the public education system available to every kid. Texas has been failing public schools for a decade. It's time to start turning that particular Titanic around.
Bodily autonomy. I believe women are capable of making decisions about their own bodies, pregnancies, families and futures. As a sex educator, this one is deeply connected to the work I do every day. If you know a sex educator that is "not political" and not working toward bodily autonomy in their community, they are not actually a sex educator. I will die, violently, on this hill.
Reproductive freedom. I believe decisions about pregnancy belong primarily to the person who is pregnant, in consultation with the medical professionals they trust, not politicians. See above paragraph.
Accessible healthcare. Getting sick shouldn't be a financial catastrophe. I want more people to be able to see a doctor, afford medication, access mental and reproductive healthcare, and get evidence-based care when they need it.
LGBTQ+ dignity and freedom. I want people to be able to build families, access healthcare, go to school, work, love who they love and move through the world with the same basic dignity and legal protections I expect for myself. I am a sex educator. This is my job.
Science and evidence. I want public policy informed by actual evidence, particularly when we're talking about healthcare, sexuality, education and public health.
Freedom that actually means freedom. Not just freedom for people who live, worship, marry, parent or believe the way I do. I want a government that leaves room for people to make different choices about their own lives.
These aren't abstract political issues to me. They're my kids' classrooms, my clients, my work, my friends, my neighbors, my body. So yes, I'm very happily political, because my values inform my vote. And my values are very important to me.
The midterms matter. Texas votes on November 3, 2026, with early voting beginning October 19. The voter-registration deadline is October 5. (You must turn in your registration through the mail like it's 1865)
Whatever values inform your vote, figure out what they are. Look at who and what is actually on your ballot. Then show up.
Alright Texas...Clear eyes, full bush.
