Ryan Trevino

[{"question": "Ballotpedia survey responses", "answer_html": "<p>See also: <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a></p>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Ryan Trevino completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Trevino's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading-bio-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tRyan Trevino is a dedicated mental healthcare professional with a strong educational background in legal studies and a passion for advocating for the well-being of others. With a diverse range of experiences, Ryan brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families, particularly youth, in today’s society.\r\n<p>Ryan worked as a Customer Service Agent and Ramp Agent for both United Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines, Inc. As a proud unionized member and shop steward of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Ryan developed a strong commitment to workers' rights and has remained a steadfast advocate for union protections.\r\n</p>\nRyan’s dedication to youth development is evident in his work with the Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of America, where he spent over a decade as a Youth Development Professional. His hands-on experience with young people from all backgrounds has fueled his belief in the importance of after-school programs and safe spaces where youth can learn, grow, and thrive.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading-key-message-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Fighting for a Better Future for Our Youth - I understand that the well-being and success of our youth shape the future of our communities. With over a decade of experience as a Youth Development Professional with the Boys &amp; Girls Clubs of America, I gained firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by young people today. I'm a fierce advocate for after-school programs, safe spaces, and comprehensive youth support systems. In Congress, I will prioritize expanding youth development programs, reforming the foster care system, and fighting for universal school meals.</li><li>Standing Strong for Working Families and Union Rights - As a former unionized employee with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, I've lived the struggles and victories of America’s workforce. I know the value of strong unions in securing fair wages, safe working conditions, and workplace protections. My commitment to workers’ rights extends to championing Medicare for All, housing for all, and affordable education to reduce the burdens on working families. In Congress, I will advocate for policies that uplift workers, strengthen unions, and create economic opportunities for all. I believe that when workers succeed, communities thrive.</li><li>Inclusive Leadership for All Texans - my campaign is rooted in inclusivity and justice. As a proud advocate for women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and animal rights, I am dedicated to building a society where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. My professional background in mental healthcare gives me a unique perspective on the need for compassionate, evidence-based policies to address the mental health crisis. In Congress, I will champion Medicare for All, affordable housing, and education reforms to ensure every Texan has access to the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives. My vision is clear: a future where all Texans, regardless of background or identity, can achieve their fullest potential.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading1-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am passionate about building a more equitable and just society through policies that address critical needs in our communities. As a mental healthcare professional, I am committed to championing Medicare for All, expanding mental health access, and ensuring affordable healthcare for everyone. My dedication to youth advocacy drives my support for education reform, expanding after-school programs, and improving the foster care system to provide stability for children in need. Having been a union member, I understand the importance of workers' rights, economic justice, and affordable housing for all. I am also a staunch advocate for civil rights, including women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and criminal justice reform.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading2-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe the most important characteristics and principles are integrity, empathy, accountability, and a commitment to justice. Integrity ensures that decisions are made transparently and in the best interest of the people, not personal gain. My diverse experiences, from working in unionized roles to founding a nonprofit for youth advocacy, have taught me the value of empathy—understanding the challenges others face and crafting policies that address their needs. Accountability is paramount, as elected officials must remain answerable to their constituents, consistently working to earn and maintain their trust. Lastly, a steadfast commitment to justice ensures that every decision prioritizes equity, fairness, and the rights of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable. These principles are the foundation of my campaign and will guide my actions in office.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading3-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe the qualities that would make me a successful officeholder are my integrity, empathy, resilience, and commitment to service. Integrity ensures I approach every decision with transparency and in the best interest of my constituents. My deep empathy, developed through decades of working with at-risk youth and in mental health, allows me to understand and connect with people from all walks of life. Resilience, honed through experiences like founding a nonprofit after Hurricane Harvey, gives me the strength to navigate challenges and persist in the face of adversity. Above all, my unwavering commitment to service drives me to fight for policies that uplift working-class families, protect vulnerable populations, and build stronger, more equitable communities. These qualities equip me to be a thoughtful, effective, and compassionate leader.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading4-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat was your very first job? How long did you have it?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading4-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tMy very first job was at 16, working as a summer camp counselor where I had the opportunity to teach at-risk youth how to play chess. That experience ignited my passion for working with young people and helping them discover their potential. Since then, I’ve dedicated over 25 years to youth development and mental health, focusing on creating safe, supportive environments where young people can grow, thrive, and overcome challenges. That first job laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to empowering the next generation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading5-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tDo you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading5-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tNo, I don’t believe it’s necessary for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics. Congress is already filled with former state representatives, lawyers, governors, and secretaries of state, yet we’re not better off than we were two decades ago. What we truly need is a Congress made up of working-class, everyday Americans who bring diverse perspectives and firsthand understanding of the challenges regular people face. Governing isn’t about pre-existing titles; it’s about being adaptable, learning on the job, and being committed to serving the public. The legislative branch is a unique environment, and fresh voices unencumbered by political norms can bring much-needed change and innovation to our government.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading6-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tTo quote Abraham Lincoln, \"A house divided against itself cannot stand.\" I believe the United States’ greatest challenge over the next decade will be overcoming the internal political division that has deeply polarized our nation. The constant infighting between both major parties has hindered progress on critical issues that impact everyday Americans. To address the pressing problems we face—whether it’s healthcare, economic inequality, climate change, or education reform—we must find a way to bridge this divide and foster collaboration. The ability to set aside partisan differences and work together to craft sensible, meaningful solutions will determine whether we can rise to meet these challenges and build a stronger, more united future for all.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-307896-2024-12-22\" id=\"heading7-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-307896-2024-12-22\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat are your thoughts on term limits?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-307896-2024-12-22\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-307896-2024-12-22\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI believe term limits are essential across the board to ensure our government remains dynamic, responsive, and accountable to the people it serves. Without term limits, incumbents risk becoming entrenched, complacent, or disconnected from the evolving needs and priorities of their constituents. Public service should be about making meaningful contributions, not about maintaining power. To adapt to the challenges of a changing world, our representative and judicial branches must also evolve, with fresh perspectives and new ideas. Term limits promote this necessary change, fostering a system where leadership remains focused on its true purpose: serving the people, not personal or political longevity.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"></div>\n<div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-xs-10 col-md-6 col-xs-offset-1 col-md-offset-3\"><p><a href=\"https://ballotpedia.org/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\"><img align=\"middle\" alt=\"Candidate Connection\" src=\"https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/8/88/Candidate_Connection_Logo.png\" width=\"90%\"/></a></p></div></div>\n<p>Ryan Trevino completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Trevino's responses.</p>\n<p><span class=\"expand-all\">Expand all</span> | <span class=\"collapse-all\">Collapse all</span></p>\n<div aria-multiselectable=\"true\" class=\"panel-group\" id=\"accordion\" role=\"tablist\"><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-98115-2021-04-26\" id=\"heading-bio-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-98115-2021-04-26\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho are you? Tell us about yourself.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-bio-98115-2021-04-26\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am a mental healthcare worker who provides peer support services to youths and young adults experiencing mental health which is based on my own experiences. Prior to working in the healthcare field, I was a front-line Customer Service Agent for both United Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines, Inc., and have over 10+ years of customer service experience.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-98115-2021-04-26\" id=\"heading-key-message-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-98115-2021-04-26\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tPlease list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading-key-message-98115-2021-04-26\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Our Constitution says all Americans have a right to life. Nowhere in the Constitution does it say \"but as long as Americans can afford it.\" We need to find a solution that allows American citizens greater access to lifesaving treatments and medications which allow them to be able to exercise their constitutional right to life. Anything less is simply unconstitutional.</li><li>Equality for all Americans is not a political issue, it's just common sense. Every American citizen, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or identity, religion, and race, deserves to be treated equally before the Law.</li><li>All my adult life I've advocated for youths. I don't intend to stop now. We must work to find solutions that reform our foster care/adoption system at all levels so that youths are not subjected to adverse experiences on their journey to finding a forever home. I intend to work with all levels of government to find solutions that put the interest and needs of our youth first.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-98115-2021-04-26\" id=\"heading1-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-98115-2021-04-26\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading1-98115-2021-04-26\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-98115-2021-04-26\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\">\t\t\t\tI am passionate about education, youth services, and immigration reform.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div></div>\n<div class=\"small\" data-nosnippet=\"\"><p><i><b>Note:</b> Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.</i></p></div>", "answer_text": "See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection\n\nRyan Trevino completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Trevino's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Ryan Trevino is a dedicated mental healthcare professional with a strong educational background in legal studies and a passion for advocating for the well-being of others. With a diverse range of experiences, Ryan brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families, particularly youth, in today’s society. Ryan worked as a Customer Service Agent and Ramp Agent for both United Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines, Inc. As a proud unionized member and shop steward of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Ryan developed a strong commitment to workers' rights and has remained a steadfast advocate for union protections. Ryan’s dedication to youth development is evident in his work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, where he spent over a decade as a Youth Development Professional. His hands-on experience with young people from all backgrounds has fueled his belief in the importance of after-school programs and safe spaces where youth can learn, grow, and thrive. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? Fighting for a Better Future for Our Youth - I understand that the well-being and success of our youth shape the future of our communities. With over a decade of experience as a Youth Development Professional with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, I gained firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by young people today. I'm a fierce advocate for after-school programs, safe spaces, and comprehensive youth support systems. In Congress, I will prioritize expanding youth development programs, reforming the foster care system, and fighting for universal school meals. Standing Strong for Working Families and Union Rights - As a former unionized employee with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, I've lived the struggles and victories of America’s workforce. I know the value of strong unions in securing fair wages, safe working conditions, and workplace protections. My commitment to workers’ rights extends to championing Medicare for All, housing for all, and affordable education to reduce the burdens on working families. In Congress, I will advocate for policies that uplift workers, strengthen unions, and create economic opportunities for all. I believe that when workers succeed, communities thrive. Inclusive Leadership for All Texans - my campaign is rooted in inclusivity and justice. As a proud advocate for women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and animal rights, I am dedicated to building a society where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. My professional background in mental healthcare gives me a unique perspective on the need for compassionate, evidence-based policies to address the mental health crisis. In Congress, I will champion Medicare for All, affordable housing, and education reforms to ensure every Texan has access to the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives. My vision is clear: a future where all Texans, regardless of background or identity, can achieve their fullest potential. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am passionate about building a more equitable and just society through policies that address critical needs in our communities. As a mental healthcare professional, I am committed to championing Medicare for All, expanding mental health access, and ensuring affordable healthcare for everyone. My dedication to youth advocacy drives my support for education reform, expanding after-school programs, and improving the foster care system to provide stability for children in need. Having been a union member, I understand the importance of workers' rights, economic justice, and affordable housing for all. I am also a staunch advocate for civil rights, including women’s rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and criminal justice reform. What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? I believe the most important characteristics and principles are integrity, empathy, accountability, and a commitment to justice. Integrity ensures that decisions are made transparently and in the best interest of the people, not personal gain. My diverse experiences, from working in unionized roles to founding a nonprofit for youth advocacy, have taught me the value of empathy—understanding the challenges others face and crafting policies that address their needs. Accountability is paramount, as elected officials must remain answerable to their constituents, consistently working to earn and maintain their trust. Lastly, a steadfast commitment to justice ensures that every decision prioritizes equity, fairness, and the rights of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable. These principles are the foundation of my campaign and will guide my actions in office. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? I believe the qualities that would make me a successful officeholder are my integrity, empathy, resilience, and commitment to service. Integrity ensures I approach every decision with transparency and in the best interest of my constituents. My deep empathy, developed through decades of working with at-risk youth and in mental health, allows me to understand and connect with people from all walks of life. Resilience, honed through experiences like founding a nonprofit after Hurricane Harvey, gives me the strength to navigate challenges and persist in the face of adversity. Above all, my unwavering commitment to service drives me to fight for policies that uplift working-class families, protect vulnerable populations, and build stronger, more equitable communities. These qualities equip me to be a thoughtful, effective, and compassionate leader. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? My very first job was at 16, working as a summer camp counselor where I had the opportunity to teach at-risk youth how to play chess. That experience ignited my passion for working with young people and helping them discover their potential. Since then, I’ve dedicated over 25 years to youth development and mental health, focusing on creating safe, supportive environments where young people can grow, thrive, and overcome challenges. That first job laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to empowering the next generation. Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics? No, I don’t believe it’s necessary for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics. Congress is already filled with former state representatives, lawyers, governors, and secretaries of state, yet we’re not better off than we were two decades ago. What we truly need is a Congress made up of working-class, everyday Americans who bring diverse perspectives and firsthand understanding of the challenges regular people face. Governing isn’t about pre-existing titles; it’s about being adaptable, learning on the job, and being committed to serving the public. The legislative branch is a unique environment, and fresh voices unencumbered by political norms can bring much-needed change and innovation to our government. What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade? To quote Abraham Lincoln, \"A house divided against itself cannot stand.\" I believe the United States’ greatest challenge over the next decade will be overcoming the internal political division that has deeply polarized our nation. The constant infighting between both major parties has hindered progress on critical issues that impact everyday Americans. To address the pressing problems we face—whether it’s healthcare, economic inequality, climate change, or education reform—we must find a way to bridge this divide and foster collaboration. The ability to set aside partisan differences and work together to craft sensible, meaningful solutions will determine whether we can rise to meet these challenges and build a stronger, more united future for all. What are your thoughts on term limits? I believe term limits are essential across the board to ensure our government remains dynamic, responsive, and accountable to the people it serves. Without term limits, incumbents risk becoming entrenched, complacent, or disconnected from the evolving needs and priorities of their constituents. Public service should be about making meaningful contributions, not about maintaining power. To adapt to the challenges of a changing world, our representative and judicial branches must also evolve, with fresh perspectives and new ideas. Term limits promote this necessary change, fostering a system where leadership remains focused on its true purpose: serving the people, not personal or political longevity.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.\n\n\nRyan Trevino completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2021. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Trevino's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. I am a mental healthcare worker who provides peer support services to youths and young adults experiencing mental health which is based on my own experiences. Prior to working in the healthcare field, I was a front-line Customer Service Agent for both United Airlines, Inc., and Southwest Airlines, Inc., and have over 10+ years of customer service experience. Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office? Our Constitution says all Americans have a right to life. Nowhere in the Constitution does it say \"but as long as Americans can afford it.\" We need to find a solution that allows American citizens greater access to lifesaving treatments and medications which allow them to be able to exercise their constitutional right to life. Anything less is simply unconstitutional. Equality for all Americans is not a political issue, it's just common sense. Every American citizen, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or identity, religion, and race, deserves to be treated equally before the Law. All my adult life I've advocated for youths. I don't intend to stop now. We must work to find solutions that reform our foster care/adoption system at all levels so that youths are not subjected to adverse experiences on their journey to finding a forever home. I intend to work with all levels of government to find solutions that put the interest and needs of our youth first. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am passionate about education, youth services, and immigration reform.\nNote: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it."}]