Endorsements
November 3, 2026
***Updated weekly***
Tune in every Friday this summer for more of our Texas endorsements by region.
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Statewide | SBOE | Austin | Fort Bend | Harris County | North Texas | South Texas
Statewide
James Talarico
for United States Senate
Why We Endorsed:
An eighth-generation Texan and former middle school teacher, James Talarico has served four terms in the Texas Legislature, where he capped insulin costs and helped secure new investments in Texas public schools. As U.S. Senator, he wants to bring honesty and compassion back to politics by delivering affordable healthcare, well-funded public schools, and a government that works for everyday Texans.
Gina Hinojosa
Why We Endorsed:
Former civil rights attorney, Gina Hinojosa served 5 terms in the Texas Legislature and four years on the Austin ISD school board, where she has been a fierce champion for public education, helping invest over $1 Billion in Texas public schools. As governor, she wants to unite Texans through investing in healthcare access and education to build a Texas we can afford.
for TX Governor
Vikki Goodwin
Why We Endorsed:
A small business owner and four-term state representative, Vikki Goodwin has served on the House Appropriations Committee, where she learned the value of smart state investments and the relationships it takes to get things done. As Lieutenant Governor, she wants to reinvest in public schools while expanding affordable healthcare and clean water for every Texan.
for Lt. Governor
Nathan Johnson
Why We Endorsed:
A litigator and mediator, Nathan Johnson has represented Dallas in the State Senate since 2018, becoming the state’s leading voice for Medicaid expansion and a driving force behind strengthening our power grid. As Attorney General, he wants to serve as a trusted champion for Texas consumers and small businesses by delivering affordable healthcare and a government Texans can count on.
for Attorney General
Sarah Eckhardt
Why We Endorsed:
With nearly two decades of public service, Sarah Eckhardt rose from Assistant County Attorney to become the first woman elected Travis county judge, before being elected to the Texas Senate in 2020. As County Judge, she balanced budgets and cut property taxes three times while expanding healthcare for county employees. As Comptroller, she wants to build trust with Texans through increasing accountability for state spending and delivering the transparency taxpayers deserve.
for Comptroller
Ben Flores
for General Land Office Commissioner
Why We Endorsed:
With nearly 30 years of experience in cybersecurity and risk management, Ben Flores serves as a current city council member in Bay City, elected on a promise for transparency in local government. As Land commissioner, he wants to put Texans first by growing funding for our public schools, expanding services for veterans, and protecting the Texas coastline for generations to come.
Clayton Tucker
for Agriculture Commissioner
Why We Endorsed:
A multi-generational rancher from Lampasas, Clayton Tucker has worked as a water researcher and educator before becoming a community organizer. When elected as Agriculture Commissioner, he wants to keep Texas healthy through investing in local farmers to make food affordable again and lowering water cost through protecting Texas water for Texans.
Jon Rosenthal
for Railroad Commissioner
Why We Endorsed:
With over 25 years of experience in the Oil and Gas Industry, Jon Rosenthal served four terms as the only Mechanical Engineer in the Texas House representing Northwest Houston. He has been a key ally in protecting AAPI communities, fighting against anti-asian hate and Islamophobia. As railroad commissioner, he wants to put Texans first by making our power grid more reliable and efficient to lower our energy costs.
State Board of Education
Thomas Ray Garcia
Why We Endorsed:
As an educator, author and entrepreneur from and working within the Rio Grande Valley, Thomas Ray Garcia is the right candidate to serve as the next State Board of Education District 2 Member. With 13 years in K-12 and higher education, he knows firsthand what it takes for our public schools to best serve students and families within the Gulf Coast of Texas. Thomas is ready to bring local solutions and a fresh vision to the State Board of Education to help every Gulf Coast student thrive.
for SBOE District 2
Allison Bush
Why We Endorsed:
Allison is a seasoned educator with over 25 years as a teacher, counselor, administrator and education foundation leader throughout Central Texas. With a strong emphasis on expanding opportunities for students and families, she’s worked to keep classrooms strong at all levels of education. Allison has the foresight to continue leading as the next State Board of Education District 5 Member for Central Texas families to prosper.
for SBOE District 5
Tiffany Perkinz
Why We Endorsed:
Tiffany Perkinz is a lifelong educator with experiences across all levels of education, including as an English Language Arts (ELA) teacher, and she holds a master’s degree in education. She is committed to upholding the separation of church and state, protecting true history, evidence- based science, and academic freedom. Recognizing Texas’s rich diversity, Perkins is dedicated to ensuring that all students, including AAPI students, are represented in the curriculum by partnering with organizations like ATJAF to amplify AAPI voices and reflect the states’ diverse cultures, languages and histories at the State Board of Education.
for SBOE District 7
Dana Van De Walker
Why We Endorsed:
Dana Van de Walker has served in diverse roles ranging from elementary ESL teacher to college instructor, bringing the expertise needed to serve on the State Board of Education. As a dedicated grassroots community leader, she has actively partnered with AAPI communities across Texas, reflecting ATJAF's commitment to ensuring AAPI voices are heard and represented. Walker also shares our values by supporting the separation of church and state, opposing school vouchers, and advocating for strong investment in Texas public schools.
for SBOE District 8
Tiffany Clark
Why We Endorsed:
As the incumbent State Board of Education member, Dr. Tiffany Clark brings 12 years of experience as a teacher, counselor, adjunct professor, and former DeSoto ISD Board Trustee. She champions diversity and representation as key supports for student mental health, aligning closely with ATJAF's mission to "Be Bold in Our Belonging." Dr. Clark has partnered with ATJAF to advance inclusive education, including successfully advocating for the inclusion of the 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act in the Texas history curriculum, and is committed to strengthening support for AAPI students.
for SBOE District 13
Austin
Greg Casar
Why We Endorsed:
Greg Casar has a proven record of fighting for working-class families throughout his career. As policy director for the Workers Defense Project, he helped win the first-ever water break protections for construction workers in Texas. During his time at the Austin City Council, he championed stronger tenant protections and workers' rights, setting a standard for other major cities. Now serving as the Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, Casar remains committed to economic justice and building a more inclusive democracy for working people. ATJAF trusts Casar to keep fighting for working Texans and build an inclusive democracy for all.
for US House, TX-37
Pooja Sethi
for TX House District 47
Why We Endorsed:
Pooja Sethi, an immigration attorney and former Chief of Staff for HD 47, has a strong understanding of the district’s needs and a proven record of advancing legislation, including measures to prevent drowning and gun violence. As a mother, advocate for public education, and supporter of immigrant communities, Sethi is committed to uplifting the growing AAPI population in the district. ATJAF trusts Sethi’s ability to deliver results and values her commitment to partnering with AAPI organizations, uplifting AAPI concerns, and ensuring her district is meaningfully represented in the policymaking process.
Montserrat Garibay
for TX House District 49
Why We Endorsed:
Montserrat has over 25 years of experience fighting alongside working Texans. In 2001, Garibay - a Dreamer - helped pass the Texas Dream Act, which allowed undocumented students to receive in-state tuition benefits. After the state legislature cut preschool funding, Garibay successfully organized local community members to get Austin ISD to close the funding gap. ATJAF is proud to endorse Garibay because Texas House District 49 needs someone who has lived the fight for public education and immigrant rights.
Samantha Lopez-Resendez
for TX House District 50
Why We Endorsed:
Samantha brings years of experience working in Representative Howard’s office and is a passionate advocate for healthcare, especially protecting women’s reproductive rights as they continue to face challenges in Texas. Representing one of the most diverse districts in the state, she is committed to ensuring the AAPI community is heard by actively engaging with local communities, such as Muslim Texans, to better understand their experiences and legislative gaps.
Selena Xie
for City of Austin, Council District 8
Why We Endorsed:
For over a decade, Selena Xie has served Austin as an Austin EMS Commander, ICU nurse, and labor leader. As the only AAPI Candidate running in District 8, ATJAF backs Xie because she brings the same urgency to affordability and public safety that she’s brought to every emergency call – and because she knows how to get things done for the people who need it most.
Zohaib Qadri
Incumbent, for City of Austin, Council District 9
Why We Endorsed:
In 2023, Zohaib Qadri made history as the first South Asian and Muslim Councilmember elected to represent District 9 amid rising affordability pressures and climate threats. Representing a large population of UT Austin students, Qadri turns to the community to find solutions to make Austin more affordable and inclusive. Since taking office, Qadri has led housing reform, resulting in a 10% decrease in rent across the city. ATJAF supports Qadri because he has a proven track record of finding solutions within the community he represents.
Allison Bush
Why We Endorsed:
Allison is a seasoned educator with over 25 years as a teacher, counselor, administrator and education foundation leader throughout Central Texas. With a strong emphasis on expanding opportunities for students and families, she’s worked to keep classrooms strong at all levels of education. Allison has the foresight to continue leading as the next State Board of Education District 5 Member for Central Texas families to prosper.
for SBOE District 5
Fort Bend
Christian Menefee
Incumbent for US House, TX-18
Why We Endorsed:
Raised in TX Congressional District 18, Christian Menefee is fighting for the community that raised him. As Harris County Attorney, he built an office led by minority community leaders and stayed rooted in communities like Alief, ensuring that AAPI residents had someone to call. In Congress, he’s bringing that same fight to Washington for Texans.
Surendran Pattel
Incumbent for Fort Bend 240th Judicial District Court
Why We Endorsed:
Incumbent Surendran Pattel is the only Asian American District Court Judge in Fort Bend. Elected in 2022, Judge Pattel has brought transparency and efficiency to the court house – reducing the case backlog and earning the highest clearance rate in Fort Bend county. He is a compassionate leader investing in the next generation by holding internships for teens to learn more about the district courts.
Juli Mathew
Incumbent for Fort Bend, County Court at Law #3
Why We Endorsed:
In 2018, Juli Mathew was the first Indian American woman elected to a judicial bench in the United States. During her tenure, Judge Mathew founded the Juvenile Intervention and Mental Health (JIMHS) Court to ensure that young people are given opportunities to grow. Through her community programs, Judge Mathew has welcomed residents into the court house to build trust and involve the community in decision making.
Dexter McCoy
for Fort Bend County Judge
Why We Endorsed:
Born and raised in Fort Bend county, Dexter McCoy understands that local government must work for the people. He lives by the value that everyone is valuable and belongs in Fort Bend County; turning towards AAPI community members to learn and build solutions together. As Fort Bend County grows, McCoy has been a strong advocate for the Asian American community, defending immigrants and confronting Islamophobia.
Beverley Walker
Incumbent for Fort Bend County District Clerk
Why We Endorsed:
Beverley Walker, incumbent Fort Bend County District Clerk and the first African American woman to serve on Houston City council, has built a career on representing everyone. She’s committed to ensuring court staff reflects the county’s diversity and to keeping the Asian American community represented in leadership and staffing decisions.
April Jones
for Fort Bend Commissioner, Precinct 4
Why We Endorsed:
April Jones is running for Fort Bend County Commissioner, Precinct 4, on a platform of fiscal accountability and community investment. She champions transparency in commissioners court, environmentally sound infrastructure, robust public health initiative, and support for small businesses and workers.
Sonia Rash
Incumbent for Fort Bend County Justice of the Peace #3
Why We Endorsed:
Proud Pakistani Texan, Sonia Rash is a true champion of accessibility and community investment. Since becoming Justice of the Peace (JP) in 2023, Judge Rash has expanded translation services and legal resources for the community. She is the only JP to provide night court and works with community members to increase access to justice.
Eliz Markowitz
for TX House District 26
Why We Endorsed:
Eliz Markowitz brings deep education expertise to House District 26, holding multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. Committed to strengthening public education, public health, and affordability, she has partnered with AAPI Texas leaders to ensure the district's growing AANHPI community is represented and its priorities are heard.
Ron Reynolds
Incumbent for TX House District 27
Why We Endorsed:
As the incumbent representing House District 27, Representative Ron Reynolds has been a steadfast advocate for the AAPI community. He stood with AAPI Texans and ATJAF in opposing SB 17, the anti-alien land law, and has consistently supported the community by attending cultural events, engaging leaders, and ensuring AAPI voices are heard in the legislative process.
Sandy Ibáñez
for TX House District 28
Why We Endorsed:
As a candidate for House District 28, Sandy N. Ibáñez understands the importance of representation in Fort Bend County and is committed to ensuring the AAPI community has a voice in the legislative process through having AAPI staff to guide her policies. Demonstrating her commitment, Ibáñez also offers campaign materials in multiple Asian languages, including Hindi, Chinese, and Vietnamese.
Suleman Lalani
Incumbent for TX House District 76
Why We Endorsed:
As the incumbent for House District 76, Representative Suleman Lalani is a leading voice for AAPI Texans as a founding member and current Co-Chair of the Texas AAPI Legislative Caucus. Since taking office, Representative Lalani has worked closely with AAPI leaders and organizations to advance policies that support AAPI Texans while opposing discriminatory legislation that harms immigrant and AAPI communities.
Tiffany Perkinz
for SBOE District 7
Why We Endorsed:
Tiffany Perkinz is a lifelong educator with experiences across all levels of education, including as an English Language Arts (ELA) teacher, and she holds a master’s degree in education. She is committed to upholding the separation of church and state, protecting true history, evidence- based science, and academic freedom. Recognizing Texas’s rich diversity, Perkins is dedicated to ensuring that all students, including AAPI students, are represented in the curriculum by partnering with organizations like ATJAF to amplify AAPI voices and reflect the states’ diverse cultures, languages and histories at the State Board of Education.
Dana Van de Walker
Why We Endorsed:
With more than 20 years of experience in education across the globe, including Texas, Dana Van de Walker has served in diverse roles ranging from elementary ESL teacher to college instructor, bringing the expertise needed to serve on the State Board of Education. As a dedicated grassroots community leader, she has actively partnered with AAPI communities across Texas, reflecting ATJAF's commitment to ensuring AAPI voices are heard and represented. Walker also shares our values by supporting the separation of church and state, opposing school vouchers, and advocating for strong investment in Texas public schools so every student has access to a high-quality education.
for SBOE District 8
Harris County
Christian Menefee
Incumbent for US House, TX-18
Why We Endorsed:
Raised in TX Congressional District 18, Christian Menefee is fighting for the community that raised him. As Harris County Attorney, he built an office led by minority community leaders and stayed rooted in communities like Alief, ensuring that AAPI residents had someone to call. In Congress, he’s bringing that same fight to Washington for Texans.
Rabeea Collier
Incumbent for Harris, 113th Judicial District Court
Why We Endorsed:
Houston native, Judge Rabeea Collier believes the court house should be an open space for learning, giving middle and high schoolers real courtroom experience. She has served and supported many local bar associations to build skills in the next generation of lawyers. As President of the Texas Association of District Judges, she pushed for a stronger, more accessible judiciary statewide.
Letitia Plummer
for Harris County Judge
Why We Endorsed:
Of Yemeni, Persian, and African American descent, Dr. Letitia Plummer made history as the first Muslim woman elected to Houston City Council. Through rising Islamophobia and anti-Asian hate, she has been a fierce advocate for the AAPI community as an advisor to the mayor on AAPI issues.
Lesley Briones
Incumbent for Harris County Commissioner Precinct #4
Why We Endorsed:
Commissioner Lesley Briones represents one of the largest concentrations of AAPIs in the South. In her tenure, she has appointed AAPI community members to ensure that the government in Precinct 4 represents the community. As commissioner, she has expanded language access for county resources and lead initiatives to celebrate the AAPI community.
Christine Vinh Weems
Incumbent for Harris, 281st Judicial District Court
Why We Endorsed:
Judge Christine Weems is the child of Vietnamese refugees and the only Southeast Asian Judge on the bench in Harris County. After 7 years on the bench, she understands real engagement with the AAPI community is showing up and offering support. She is committed to educating community members and making her courtroom a place where everyone feels seen and heard.
Leah Shapiro
Incumbent for Harris, 315th Judicial District Court
Why We Endorsed:
Judge Leah Shapiro presides over the only court with a dual docket focusing on juvenile mental health and juvenile sexual abuse cases. Judge Shapiro is dedicated to creating structure and sustainability for the children in her courtroom and through community education around CPS and the justice system.
Manpreet Monica Singh
Incumbent for Harris, Civil Court at Law #4
Why We Endorsed:
Born into one of Houston's first Sikh families, Judge Manpreet Monica Singh became an advocate for the Sikh community after the wave of anti-South Asian sentiment following 9/11. In 2022, she became the first Sikh judge in the nation where she championed language access in the courtroom.
James Horwitz
Incumbent for Harris, Probate Court at Law #4
Why We Endorsed:
Judge James Horwitz presides over Probate Court 4, one of two courts in Harris County that focuses on mental health matters. He believes judges shouldn’t be isolated from the communities they serve, offering zoom court for accessibility and community education on probate law for the AAPI community.
Staci Childs
for TX House District 131
Why We Endorsed:
Running for House District 131, Staci Childs brings experience as an attorney and State Board of Education member, where she championed marginalized students and fought for equitable education. She championed ATJ’s amendment to include the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965. Recognizing HD 131’s growing AAPI community, Childs is committed to ensuring their voices are represented at the Capitol.
Odus Evbagharu
for TX House District 135
Why We Endorsed:
Running for House District 135, Odus Evbagharu, the son of Nigerian immigrants, has long advocated for immigrant communities. As former Harris County Democratic Party Chair, he built strong relationships with AAPI leaders through community events. He understands the importance of language access and combating anti-Asian hate, emphasizing solidarity, collaboration, and inclusive policies that uplift all communities
Gene Wu
for TX House District 137
Why We Endorsed:
Representative Gene Wu has championed AAPI Texans for more than 13 years, growing as a leader and advocate for AAPI representation. As Chair of the Texas House Democratic Caucus, he has fought SB 17 and anti-Asian land restrictions alongside Asian Texans for Justice, demonstrating his commitment to working with AAPI leaders and understanding his community. He continues fighting for all Texans by opposing gerrymandering and defending democracy.
Tyler Smith
for TX House District 138
Why We Endorsed:
Growing up in a multiracial family with Asian siblings and in House District 138, Tyler Smith understands his community from the inside out. With experience working on campaigns, including Beto O’Rourke and the Biden-Harris campaign, Tyler is committed to engaging AAPI communities and communities of color in civic participation and voting. He believes every voice deserves to be heard and represented.
Darlene Breaux
for TX House District 149
Why We Endorsed:
Through her experience as Alief ISD Board President, Dr. Darlene Breaux brings 25 years of expertise as an educator, school board leader, and policy advocate. Running for Texas House District 149, she is committed to championing healthcare, affordable housing, and public education. Dr. Breaux prioritizes listening to her diverse community by working with local AAPI staff, hosting listening sessions, and attending AAPI community events to understand residents’ needs and ensure their voices are represented.
Silky Joshi-Malik
for Harris County Department of Education, Position 7
Why We Endorsed:
Houston native and daughter of Indian immigrants, Silky Joshi-Malik serves on the Harris County AAPI commission, working to ensure AAPI communities are represented in county decision-making and connected to essential services. As an HCDE Trustee, Joshi-Malik is committed to accessibility, championing early childhood education, special education, and after-school programs for working families.
North Texas
Evan Hunt
for US House, TX-3
Why We Endorsed:
Retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Evan Hunt believes that our freedom and diversity is America’s greatest strength. He is committed to protecting Social Security, veterans, and affordable healthcare to increase opportunities for North Texas. Evan is committed to working with AAPI community leaders to combat rising Islamophobia and xenophobia happening all across North Texas.
Detrick Deburr
for TX House District 65
Why We Endorsed:
Detrick Deburr is a software engineer with over two decades of North Texas community service, including over 18 years as planning and zoning commissioner in Denton County. In a district nearly 15% Asian, he’s running to be a representative who truly reflects and serves everyone who calls HD-65 home by delivering fully funded schools, expanding healthcare access, and building robust benefits for all Texans.
Sandeep Srivastava
for TX House District 66
Why We Endorsed:
As a first-generation immigrant, longtime Collin County resident, and local business owner, Sandeep Srivastava is running for Texas House District 66 to bring his technical precision experience and understanding of the community’s needs, to represent their district in Austin. In one of the highest AAPI populations in the state, Sandeep understands the immigrant experience and the diverse fast-growing suburban community to help bridge local priorities with statewide policy.
Jordan Wheatley
for TX House District 67
Why We Endorsed:
4th grade teacher and coach, Jordan Wheatley understands what working families are up against.. He is working alongside AAPI community leaders to support District 67’s growing Muslim community. As State Rep, Jordan wants to make Texas more affordable, fully fund public education, and stop corruption in Austin. He believes his educator skills will work effectively in Austin.
Salman Bhojani
Incumbent for TX House District 92
Why We Endorsed:
Salman Bhojani made history as the first Muslim and first South Asian elected to represent Texas House District 92. Since elected, he co-founded the Texas Legislature’s Asian American and Pacific Islander caucus to ensure the AAPI community has a voice in the state legislature. Rep. Bhojani has been a strong advocate for inclusive curriculum and religious freedom – by adding the Torah, Gita, and Qur’ran to the Capitol chapel.
Zach Herbert
for TX House District 112
Why We Endorsed:
A Marine Corps veteran and Board-Certified personal injury trial lawyer, Zach Herbert has spent his career standing up to big insurance companies and corporations on behalf of everyday Texans and understands the everyday challenges facing Texas families As state rep, Zach wants to protect public education, support working families and an accessible state government that serves the people of TX House District 112.
Alisa Simmons
for Tarrant County Judge
Why We Endorsed:
Tarrant County Commissioner Alisa Simmons champions affordability, housing access, and stronger human services so families can thrive. A responsive, present leader, she’s built relationships within the AAPI community, ensuring their voices are heard. Commissioner Simmons has earned a reputation as a courageous, unyielding defender of civil rights, public health protections and transparent government.
Michelle Butler
for Denton County Justice of the Peace #6
Why We Endorsed:
Michelle Butler is running to bring dignity and real justice to local courts. Drawing on her organizing experience with major national campaigns, she will connect residents with resources before eviction, truancy, or debt cases escalate. As a mom, dedicated public servant and committed resident to Carrollton, Michelle is ready to make the court efficient, accessible and compassionate.
Sumbel 'Susan' Zeb
for Princeton City Council, District 6
Why We Endorsed:
Sumbel “Susan” Zeb brings grassroots values to Princeton City Council. Filling critical infrastructure gaps, Zeb founded Princeton Desi Voters to ensure civic engagement is accessible to all. As Princeton experiences rapid growth, Zeb is committed to supporting progress thoughtfully through preserving the culture that makes the city feel like home. ATJAF is proud to endorse Sumbel Zeb for Princeton City Council, District 6.
San Antonio & South Texas
Katy Padilla-Stout
for US House, TX-23
Why We Endorsed:
Educator and lawyer Katy Padilla-Stout has spent her career showing up for kids and families. She has supported families applying to Headstart demonstrating her understanding on how early education opportunities allow working parents to pursue education and careers. She has shown up for the AAPI community and is committed to expanding access to affordable healthcare and tackling the rising cost of living.
Julio Salinas
for TX House District 41
Why We Endorsed:
Raised in the Rio Grande Valley, Julio Salinas understands that AAPI and Latino communities are alike searching for their seat at the table. As the region outgrows its infrastructure, Salinas champions public transit, worker protections, and small business growth to rebuild the Valley that lifts working families up.
Zack Dunn
for TX House District 121
Why We Endorsed:
Raised in a military family, Zack Dunn learned the value of taking care of others. As a Bexar County prosecuter in the Family Violence Division, he stands with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, helping expand legal resources in Asian languages. Now he’s running for District 121 to ensure every family has what they need to live safely and thrive.
Adrian Reyna
for TX House District 125
Why We Endorsed:
Born and raised in District 125, Adrian Reyna has served 15 years as history teacher in San Antonio ISD. Now a union leader, he hopes to expand education opportunities through ensuring our schools are teaching skills and trades to help working families. As State Representative, he wants to build an AAPI advisory council to address distinct concerns in the AAPI community.
Ron Nirenberg
for Bexar County Judge
Why We Endorsed:
Former San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg brings a lifetime of service to his run for Bexar County Judge. Raised in an intercultural, interfaith household, he made history as San Antonio’s first Asian American mayor and has long supported Asian business and cultural organizations. As Bexar County grows, Ron is committed to investing in county services and infrastructure.
Thomas Ray Garcia
for SBOE District 2
Why We Endorsed:
Thomas Ray Garcia is the right candidate to serve as the next State Board of Education District 2 Member. With 13 years in K-12 and higher education, he knows firsthand what it takes for our public schools to best serve students and families within the Gulf Coast of Texas. Thomas is ready to bring local solutions and a fresh vision to the State Board of Education to help every Gulf Coast student thrive.