Vanessa F. Hicks-Callaway

[{"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>Vanessa Hicks-Callaway completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Hicks-Callaway'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-key-message-389734-2025-12-09\" id=\"heading-key-message-389734-2025-12-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-389734-2025-12-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-389734-2025-12-09\" 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-389734-2025-12-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-389734-2025-12-09\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>Americans of Texas Congressional District 35, if you are searching for representative leadership who live in this district to help you live abundantly richer, safer, stronger, and healthier lives, your search is over. I am that leader. Texans deserve strong representative leadership. Illegal immigration, climate change policies, and leftist culture wars do nothing but drain America of its economic resources, divide us, and threaten our golden future. You deserve leadership with drive, tenacity, experience and competence that will push back on liberal nonsense by embracing, supporting, and relentlessly pursuing President Trump's 'America First-Golden Age' agenda on your behalf and on behalf of the next generation. I am that leader.</li><li>I was born and raised in a poor Texas family. Instead of crying about it, I did what our great Founding Fathers, per the Declaration of Independence, told me to do, \"pursue happiness.\" My pursuit of happiness continues. Now, as representative for TX 35, I can take my message of loving God, America, the US Constitution, family, and working hard for what you want in life to the next level. I do not believe in 'victimhood.' Do some have it worse than others? Sure. I did not have it easy in life. That did not stop me. As a matter of fact, I believe having it hard while growing up contributed to my success in life. Climbing up the rough side of the mountain, in the rain with an 80lb rucksack makes it sweeter when you get to the top!</li><li>I am what I call a 'Five Star' American. Yes, as with measuring hotels and restaurants for quality, I have criteria to measure Americans. I believe Americans of Texas Congressional District 35 embody this and are also 'Five Star' Americans. My American 'five-star' rating is fundamentally based on the following: 1. Loving Jesus Christ and Christianity. 2. Loving the US Constitution-as written! 3. Loving our great country-the United States of America! 4. Loving American Capitalism-the economic engine that drives the global economy. 5. Loving Conservatism-that desire to maintain what makes America great. I embrace and have a life reflective of these principles- all of which are undergirded with my love of my faith, family and freedom!</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-389734-2025-12-09\" id=\"heading1-389734-2025-12-09\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-389734-2025-12-09\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-389734-2025-12-09\" 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=\"heading1-389734-2025-12-09\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-389734-2025-12-09\" 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 personally passionate about managing the illegal immigration problem in America. This problem-made much worse by the surge of illegal migrants who crossed the border during Biden's administration, must be handled by allowing local law enforcement to partner with federal ICE officials and the community balanced with compassion and determination to enforce immigration laws of our nation. I am also personally passionate about having a thriving economy. I want things to be affordable. I aggressively support America first policies to help America be richer, safer, stronger and healthier. I support the Trump investment plan for babies born in 2026 and everything he is doing concerning tariffs. I am also passionate about supporting Veterans!\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<p>Vanessa Hicks-Callaway did not complete <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection</a> survey.\n</p>\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>Vanessa Hicks-Callaway completed <a href=\"/Ballotpedia%27s_Candidate_Connection\">Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection</a> survey in 2020. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Hicks-Callaway'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-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading-bio-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-bio-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-bio-69805-2020-02-07\" 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-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-bio-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tLt. Col. (US Army RET) Vanessa Hicks-Callaway is a Christian, Conservative , servant-leader from Victoria, Texas, District 30. Vanessa served in the US Army for 26 honorable years- mainly as a military intelligence officer with two combat tours and has an OIF Bronze Star Medal. She retired from the army in 2013. Vanessa has a bachelor's degree in political science and a master's degree in human resource management. In addition to serving in the military, Vanessa worked as a correctional officer and a JROTC instructor. Vanessa fully supports President Trump. She is the Senate District 18 Director for the Texas Federation of Republican Women (TFRW). She worked for the Texas 27th Congressional District as a constituent liaison and field representative for nearly 3 years and worked as a Field Director for the 2016 re-election campaign for Senator Ted Cruz. She served as the Precinct 21 Chair for Victoria County, and is a county and state delegate for the Republican Party of Texas. Vanessa is a former appointee for Texas Governor Greg Abbott for the Texas Medical Board. Vanessa plans to become the next State Representative for Texas District 30. Vanessa believes she is the right choice, at the right time, for the right future for TX District 30. She's been married to Jason Callaway for 23 years and they have 2 sons. She belongs to several non-profit organizations like the Kiwanis Club, Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity, VFW, DAV, MOWW, and the American Legion. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading-key-message-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse-key-message-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse-key-message-69805-2020-02-07\" 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-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse-key-message-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tabpanel\"><div class=\"panel-body\" style=\"max-height: 500px; overflow-y: scroll;\"><div class=\"answers-container\"><span style=\"font-size: 14px;\"><ul><li>I will fight for the preservation of our freedom, traditional values, rights, and liberties which having make us a great state and nation: \"All men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.\"</li><li>I will fight for the right to life from birth to natural death: All innocent human life, created in the image of God, must be protected from conception to natural death in a modern, civilized society like the USA.</li><li>I will fight for limited government, low taxes, and limited regulations so families, businesses, and individuals can thrive in our state and in America: The preservation of American and Texas sovereignty and freedom, by limiting government power, based on the United States and Texas Constitutions, is a must.</li></ul></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading1-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse1-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse1-69805-2020-02-07\" 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=\"heading1-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse1-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\t1. Government Accountability: every dime of the taxpayer's money should be accounted for and spent on necessities only in a transparent manner.<br/>\n<p>2. State sovereignty: the federal government should respect the rights of the state's self-governance. Federally mandated legislation like same-sex marriage and abortion should adhere to 10th Amendment rights and be decided by the states. <br/>\n3. Family Values: Traditional Judeo-Christian family values should be protected; any assault on these values should be exposed and disallowed.<br/>\n4. The Right to Keep and Bear Arms for Self-Defense: All lawful, responsible gun owners should be able to defend themselves from those who wish to do us harm without infringement from the US government with Red Flag Laws as established in the 2nd Amendment of the US Constitution. <br/>\n5. I support free trade and the free market as critical components that drive US capitalism. I support limited government with limited regulations and do not want to see the US abandon capitalism for socialism. <br/>\n</p>\n6. I fully support withdrawing public funding from any college or university in the state of Texas that deliberately or even remotely discriminates or permits discrimination against the free speech of either students or guest speakers.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading2-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse2-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse2-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWho do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading2-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse2-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 look up to Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ, as a friendly reminder, was a living, breathing historical figure who walked the earth among men. His leadership, and ministry left a huge impact on the entire world that continues on today. I know religion in America can be a controversial topic. However, I want to remind people Jesus Christ left a legacy through which the bible became known worldwide as the Word of God. I am so grateful for the ministry of Jesus and for the Word of God. The Word of God delivers inspirational messages, examples, and wisdom we can use for living of our lives. It is powerful-especially for those who espouse to be Christians. Our very nation came into being because of people who wanted to freely be able to live their lives in accordance with the doctrine of Judeo Christian philosophy. So, yes; I want to follow the example of Jesus Christ. I want to follow his example because of the life he led, his leadership, his ministry, his powerful stories known as parables that still minister to us in the year 2020 in the 21st Century. I want to live by his incredible example of boldness, non-violence and forgiveness. I believe that the example of Jesus Christ is what has influenced many great men and women in our modern history. President George Washington, President Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Billy Graham, President Ronald Reagan, Mother Theresa, Dr. Ben Carson and others like them were all influenced by Jesus Christ and his powerful example. Jesus will continue to influence many, many others and that makes him an even stronger example to follow and to respect. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading3-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse3-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse3-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading3-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse3-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 think people who want to understand my political philosophy need to read the following books and documents:<br/>\n<p>(1) The Holy Bible<br/>\n(2) The US Constitution<br/>\n</p>\n(3) The Texas Constitution<br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading4-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse4-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse4-69805-2020-02-07\" 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=\"heading4-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse4-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tThe characteristics most important for an elected official are trustworthiness, honesty, competence, professionalism, and having a strong sense of love of country, state and community that is demonstrated through patriotism. <br/><br/>\nThe principles most important for an elected official are those principles that recognize the greatness of our state and country. Another principle is the need for having determination not to waste tax payers dollars. Another principle for an elected official is to not allow themselves to be 'bought' by the highest bidder, i.e. lobby groups who do not line up with conservative values. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading5-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse5-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse5-69805-2020-02-07\" 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=\"heading5-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse5-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\t4 years of active-duty enlisted service - US Army culminating in the rank of SGT<br/><br/>\n<p>3 years of reserve enlisted service - US Army as a Military Police officer<br/><br/>\n2 Years of service as a Correctional Officer - Texas Department of Corrections Ellis I Unit Containing Death Row<br/><br/>\n19 Years of active duty commissioned service - US Army as a Military Intelligence Officer culminating in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel resulting in 26 years of honorable military service with two combat tours earning the Bronze Star Medal<br/><br/>\n1 year of service as a JROTC Instructor <br/><br/>\nNearly 3 years service as a Constituent Liaison and Field Representative for the 27th US Congressional District of Texas<br/><br/>\n</p>\nServed as South-Central Regional Director for the mid-term re-election campaign for Senator Ted Cruz.<br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading6-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse6-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse6-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading6-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse6-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tYes, I do believe there are core responsibilities associated with those who are elected to this office. <br/>\n<p>(1) Texas legislators have a responsibility to know and understand the US and the Texas Constitution.<br/>\n(2) Texas legislators have a responsibility to know the demographics, income variations, population numbers, industry, largest and least largest employers and the voting preferences of their districts.<br/>\n</p>\n(3) Texas legislators have a responsibility to understand they represent their districts, their state and the nation and in so doing need to not do anything that will be embarrassing like have affairs, or take bribes, or be racist, or demonstrate a lack of class that could end up in the press. They have a responsibility to be professional at all times and to exhibit class and clarity in such a way as to motivate others and to be an example for young people who look up to them. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading7-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse7-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse7-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat legacy would you like to leave?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading7-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse7-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tTexas constitutional amendment process<br/><br/>\n<p>Administrative staff pay increase in public education-across the board<br/><br/>\nI would like to advance Religious Freedom!<br/><br/>\nI want to advance the fight for the Right to Life<br/><br/>\nI want to advance Support for Private Health Savings Plans<br/><br/>\nI want to greatly improve Coastal Issues<br/><br/>\n</p>\nI want to set see a new Stadium get build in the 30th district by Partnering with UHV and VISD<br/></span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading8-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse8-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse8-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading8-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse8-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tThe first significant historical event in my lifetime that I can remember was when the NASA's Space Shuttle Challenger exploded in broad daylight on the air for millions around the world to see live. I wasn't that young when this happened in 1986. I was 18 years old, but it really impacted me because it was so massively built up as a big deal in America because a civilian school teacher was a part of the crew. I still get sad when I allow myself to think about it. However, I am also influenced by the actions of NASA and the bravery of the crews on that fateful day and the crews that followed. They are all resilient and very courageous. These are the kinds of people I admire. The ones who put it all on the line for the advancement of this great nation. I later joined the United States Army in 1987. I wanted to be a part of something bigger than I was. I wanted to do my part, albeit small to advance this great nation. I believe I have. I am no hero, but I did deploy in support of both OIF and OEF on behalf of this great nation and was willing to pay even the ultimate price like so many others have for America. So, even though the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded, the sacrifice of all on board was not wasted. The entire program has advanced by learning from the errors from that fateful voyage. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading9-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse9-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse9-69805-2020-02-07\" 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=\"heading9-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse9-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 washing cars at Mockingbird Car Wash in Victoria, Texas. I am not sure exactly, but I believe I worked there for about two years. It was there that I learned about working really hard physically for long hours in hot and cold weather. I believe it in many ways prepared me for military service which is not always glamorous work to say the least! It was at this job that I really began to dream about being a success and being able to actually own a car like the ones I was responsible for cleaning. I also learned quite a bit about working as a team and being proud of the group effort in the end. I learned about customer service too. The customer is always right! Now, I will apply that to the voter! Legislators are responsible for representing the voters within their districts. They are accountable to them and must not waste taxpayer's dollars! \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading10-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse10-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse10-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is your favorite book? Why?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading10-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse10-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 favorite book is the bible: The the bible is my favorite book because it is the Word of God and helps me to be the person I believe God wants me to be by providing wisdom, scriptures and true stories from the bible that are still applicable and relevant to this day.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading11-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse11-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse11-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading11-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse11-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tIf I could be any fictional character I would be Wonder Woman. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading12-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse12-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse12-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 the last song that got stuck in your head?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading12-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse12-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tThe theme music from the Rocky movie: The Eye of the Tiger\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading13-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse13-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse13-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tWhat is something that has been a struggle in your life?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading13-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse13-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 have struggled with understanding why anyone would want our nation to be a socialist nation and what to do about it.<br/><br/>\n<p>I have struggled with not having enough hours in the day to accomplish everything I set out to do in a 24 hour period.<br/><br/>\nI have struggled to help people who do not typically vote for conservative republican candidates to do so. <br/><br/>\n</p>\nI have struggled with understanding people who do not love this great state and nation.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading14-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse14-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse14-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tEvery state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading14-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse14-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tOne of the most important differences between the two legislative chambers in Texas is size. The House of Representatives consists of 150 members whereas the Senate consists of 31 members. The other significant difference is time in office. Representatives can only serve for two years while senators serve for 4 year terms. There are no term limits for either the House of Representatives or the Senate. So, as long as those elected can continue to be reelected, they can remain in office indefinitely. The Lt. Governor presides over the senate and the Speaker of the House presides over the House of Representatives. Each of these leaders have specific levels of power to use in order to preside in their areas of responsibility. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading15-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse15-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse15-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading15-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse15-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tYes, I do believe it is beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government and or politics whenever possible. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading16-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse16-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse16-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading16-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse16-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 greatest challenges facing the state of Texas over the next decade are as follows:<br/>\n<p>(1) The population increases over the next decade into Texas will be unprecedented.<br/>\n(2) Texas highways, roads and bridges will have to expand. lengthened, and be strengthened to handle the increase of vehicles on the road that will be used to transport personnel, and goods. <br/>\n(3) The impact of the indoctrination of socialism will begin to produce the poisonous fruit of high taxation and a needy population that does not believe in individual responsibility which will turn our great state totally blue and liberal.<br/>\n(4) The impact of illegal immigration will choke out American culture to the extent that even displaying the American flag will be something that is not accepted or tolerated due to how it will be considered 'offensive.' <br/>\n</p>\n(5) This state will be challenged with the impact of the culture wars which includes millions born out of wedlock, abortion, drug addiction, pornography addiction, and the decrease in marriage all of which will negatively devastate the Texas economy . \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading17-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse17-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse17-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading17-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse17-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tThe ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one of trust, respect, and transparency. Both the governor and the state legislature should be willing to work together simultaneously always with the greater good in mind. The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one that recognizes the powers and limits of each house and how they can work together along with the power of the government to be both extremely effective for Texas citizens and extremely ineffective for Texas citizens.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading18-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse18-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse18-69805-2020-02-07\" 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 it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading18-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse18-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tYes, I absolutely believe it is beneficial to build relationships with other legislators. The citizens of Texas 'hire'/vote in member of the legislature for the purpose of high quality governance. The best way to arrive at the objective high quality governance will be for the legislators to build strong relationships. For example, there are counties impacted by the ramifications of Hurricane Harvey while some counties were not impacted. Immediately after the disaster, impacted counties needed assistance from other counties with food, water, ice, generators, emergency personnel, debris removal assistance and places to park emergency vehicles. The only way this works is for legislators to have established relationships that can be leveraged in times of crisis. Also, there are times when specific votes will be needed in order for a bill to pass. These numbers can be achieved when relationships have been built and sustained by cooperative legislators. Also, the people of Texas demand legislators find ways to work together in a professional manner driven not by individual motivations, but by a sense of responsibility to do what is best for the greater good. Also good relationships between legislators are necessary in order to deal with freshmen legislators who are new to the legislators. Senior legislators who have a desire to build great relationships with freshmen legislators help to ensure a very strong legislature that can function without any major breaks in the quality of the function of the legislature. So, yes, absolutely, it is critical for the legislators to have strong relationships.\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading19-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse19-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse19-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading19-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse19-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tYes, I want to be a part of the following committees: <br/>\n<p>(1) Redistricting<br/>\n(2) Tourism<br/>\n(3) Transportation<br/>\n(5) Higher Education<br/>\n(6) Corrections<br/>\n(7) Defense and Veterans Affairs <br/>\n(8) Pensions, investments and Financial Services<br/>\n(9) Homeland Security and Public Safety<br/>\n</p>\n(10) Environmental Regulation\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading20-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse20-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse20-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you are a current legislator, what appealed to you about your current committees?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading20-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse20-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tN/A\t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading21-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse21-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse21-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIf you are not currently a member of your party’s leadership in the legislature, would you be interested in joining the leadership? If so, in what role?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading21-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse21-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tYes, eventually, when I serve at least two terms in the legislature, I will work to become the speaker of the house. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading22-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse22-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse22-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tIs there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading22-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse22-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tThere are many legislators I would like to model myself after. I want to model myself after all legislators who are able and who have accomplished something. I want to model myself after legislators who are efficient, professional, competent, and especially the ones who are in line with the strong values of the republican party. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading23-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse23-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse23-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tAre you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading23-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse23-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tNot at this time. I just want to become a state representative and do the best job I can. \t\t\t</span></div></div></div></div><div class=\"panel panel-default\"><div class=\"panel-heading\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-69805-2020-02-07\" id=\"heading24-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"tab\"><p class=\"panel-title\" style=\"font-size: 14px;font-weight: 600;\"><a aria-controls=\"collapse24-69805-2020-02-07\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"collapsed\" data-parent=\"#accordion\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" href=\"#collapse24-69805-2020-02-07\" role=\"button\"><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-right pull-right\"></i><i class=\"fa fa-chevron-down pull-right\"></i>\t\t\t\tBoth sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?\t\t\t</a></p></div><div aria-labelledby=\"heading24-69805-2020-02-07\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\" id=\"collapse24-69805-2020-02-07\" 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\tYes, I have heard many, many stories from Texas residents of district 30 whose lives were deeply impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Their stories heartbreaking although many of them were filled with hope. Unfortunately, I was also told of stories of not having the support they needed from their legislator; the legislator was not available on a regular basis. The later is what drove me to run for office.\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\nVanessa Hicks-Callaway completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Hicks-Callaway's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nPlease 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? Americans of Texas Congressional District 35, if you are searching for representative leadership who live in this district to help you live abundantly richer, safer, stronger, and healthier lives, your search is over. I am that leader. Texans deserve strong representative leadership. Illegal immigration, climate change policies, and leftist culture wars do nothing but drain America of its economic resources, divide us, and threaten our golden future. You deserve leadership with drive, tenacity, experience and competence that will push back on liberal nonsense by embracing, supporting, and relentlessly pursuing President Trump's 'America First-Golden Age' agenda on your behalf and on behalf of the next generation. I am that leader. I was born and raised in a poor Texas family. Instead of crying about it, I did what our great Founding Fathers, per the Declaration of Independence, told me to do, \"pursue happiness.\" My pursuit of happiness continues. Now, as representative for TX 35, I can take my message of loving God, America, the US Constitution, family, and working hard for what you want in life to the next level. I do not believe in 'victimhood.' Do some have it worse than others? Sure. I did not have it easy in life. That did not stop me. As a matter of fact, I believe having it hard while growing up contributed to my success in life. Climbing up the rough side of the mountain, in the rain with an 80lb rucksack makes it sweeter when you get to the top! I am what I call a 'Five Star' American. Yes, as with measuring hotels and restaurants for quality, I have criteria to measure Americans. I believe Americans of Texas Congressional District 35 embody this and are also 'Five Star' Americans. My American 'five-star' rating is fundamentally based on the following: 1. Loving Jesus Christ and Christianity. 2. Loving the US Constitution-as written! 3. Loving our great country-the United States of America! 4. Loving American Capitalism-the economic engine that drives the global economy. 5. Loving Conservatism-that desire to maintain what makes America great. I embrace and have a life reflective of these principles- all of which are undergirded with my love of my faith, family and freedom! What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? I am personally passionate about managing the illegal immigration problem in America. This problem-made much worse by the surge of illegal migrants who crossed the border during Biden's administration, must be handled by allowing local law enforcement to partner with federal ICE officials and the community balanced with compassion and determination to enforce immigration laws of our nation. I am also personally passionate about having a thriving economy. I want things to be affordable. I aggressively support America first policies to help America be richer, safer, stronger and healthier. I support the Trump investment plan for babies born in 2026 and everything he is doing concerning tariffs. I am also passionate about supporting Veterans!\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\nVanessa Hicks-Callaway did not complete Ballotpedia's 2024 Candidate Connection survey.\n\n\nVanessa Hicks-Callaway completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2020. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Hicks-Callaway's responses.\nExpand all | Collapse all\nWho are you? Tell us about yourself. Lt. Col. (US Army RET) Vanessa Hicks-Callaway is a Christian, Conservative , servant-leader from Victoria, Texas, District 30. Vanessa served in the US Army for 26 honorable years- mainly as a military intelligence officer with two combat tours and has an OIF Bronze Star Medal. She retired from the army in 2013. Vanessa has a bachelor's degree in political science and a master's degree in human resource management. In addition to serving in the military, Vanessa worked as a correctional officer and a JROTC instructor. Vanessa fully supports President Trump. She is the Senate District 18 Director for the Texas Federation of Republican Women (TFRW). She worked for the Texas 27th Congressional District as a constituent liaison and field representative for nearly 3 years and worked as a Field Director for the 2016 re-election campaign for Senator Ted Cruz. She served as the Precinct 21 Chair for Victoria County, and is a county and state delegate for the Republican Party of Texas. Vanessa is a former appointee for Texas Governor Greg Abbott for the Texas Medical Board. Vanessa plans to become the next State Representative for Texas District 30. Vanessa believes she is the right choice, at the right time, for the right future for TX District 30. She's been married to Jason Callaway for 23 years and they have 2 sons. She belongs to several non-profit organizations like the Kiwanis Club, Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity, VFW, DAV, MOWW, and the American Legion. 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? I will fight for the preservation of our freedom, traditional values, rights, and liberties which having make us a great state and nation: \"All men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.\" I will fight for the right to life from birth to natural death: All innocent human life, created in the image of God, must be protected from conception to natural death in a modern, civilized society like the USA. I will fight for limited government, low taxes, and limited regulations so families, businesses, and individuals can thrive in our state and in America: The preservation of American and Texas sovereignty and freedom, by limiting government power, based on the United States and Texas Constitutions, is a must. What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about? 1. Government Accountability: every dime of the taxpayer's money should be accounted for and spent on necessities only in a transparent manner. 2. State sovereignty: the federal government should respect the rights of the state's self-governance. Federally mandated legislation like same-sex marriage and abortion should adhere to 10th Amendment rights and be decided by the states. 3. Family Values: Traditional Judeo-Christian family values should be protected; any assault on these values should be exposed and disallowed. 4. The Right to Keep and Bear Arms for Self-Defense: All lawful, responsible gun owners should be able to defend themselves from those who wish to do us harm without infringement from the US government with Red Flag Laws as established in the 2nd Amendment of the US Constitution. 5. I support free trade and the free market as critical components that drive US capitalism. I support limited government with limited regulations and do not want to see the US abandon capitalism for socialism. 6. I fully support withdrawing public funding from any college or university in the state of Texas that deliberately or even remotely discriminates or permits discrimination against the free speech of either students or guest speakers. Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why? I look up to Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ, as a friendly reminder, was a living, breathing historical figure who walked the earth among men. His leadership, and ministry left a huge impact on the entire world that continues on today. I know religion in America can be a controversial topic. However, I want to remind people Jesus Christ left a legacy through which the bible became known worldwide as the Word of God. I am so grateful for the ministry of Jesus and for the Word of God. The Word of God delivers inspirational messages, examples, and wisdom we can use for living of our lives. It is powerful-especially for those who espouse to be Christians. Our very nation came into being because of people who wanted to freely be able to live their lives in accordance with the doctrine of Judeo Christian philosophy. So, yes; I want to follow the example of Jesus Christ. I want to follow his example because of the life he led, his leadership, his ministry, his powerful stories known as parables that still minister to us in the year 2020 in the 21st Century. I want to live by his incredible example of boldness, non-violence and forgiveness. I believe that the example of Jesus Christ is what has influenced many great men and women in our modern history. President George Washington, President Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Billy Graham, President Ronald Reagan, Mother Theresa, Dr. Ben Carson and others like them were all influenced by Jesus Christ and his powerful example. Jesus will continue to influence many, many others and that makes him an even stronger example to follow and to respect. Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy? I think people who want to understand my political philosophy need to read the following books and documents: (1) The Holy Bible (2) The US Constitution (3) The Texas Constitution What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official? The characteristics most important for an elected official are trustworthiness, honesty, competence, professionalism, and having a strong sense of love of country, state and community that is demonstrated through patriotism. The principles most important for an elected official are those principles that recognize the greatness of our state and country. Another principle is the need for having determination not to waste tax payers dollars. Another principle for an elected official is to not allow themselves to be 'bought' by the highest bidder, i.e. lobby groups who do not line up with conservative values. What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder? 4 years of active-duty enlisted service - US Army culminating in the rank of SGT 3 years of reserve enlisted service - US Army as a Military Police officer 2 Years of service as a Correctional Officer - Texas Department of Corrections Ellis I Unit Containing Death Row 19 Years of active duty commissioned service - US Army as a Military Intelligence Officer culminating in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel resulting in 26 years of honorable military service with two combat tours earning the Bronze Star Medal 1 year of service as a JROTC Instructor Nearly 3 years service as a Constituent Liaison and Field Representative for the 27th US Congressional District of Texas Served as South-Central Regional Director for the mid-term re-election campaign for Senator Ted Cruz. What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office? Yes, I do believe there are core responsibilities associated with those who are elected to this office. (1) Texas legislators have a responsibility to know and understand the US and the Texas Constitution. (2) Texas legislators have a responsibility to know the demographics, income variations, population numbers, industry, largest and least largest employers and the voting preferences of their districts. (3) Texas legislators have a responsibility to understand they represent their districts, their state and the nation and in so doing need to not do anything that will be embarrassing like have affairs, or take bribes, or be racist, or demonstrate a lack of class that could end up in the press. They have a responsibility to be professional at all times and to exhibit class and clarity in such a way as to motivate others and to be an example for young people who look up to them. What legacy would you like to leave? Texas constitutional amendment process Administrative staff pay increase in public education-across the board I would like to advance Religious Freedom! I want to advance the fight for the Right to Life I want to advance Support for Private Health Savings Plans I want to greatly improve Coastal Issues I want to set see a new Stadium get build in the 30th district by Partnering with UHV and VISD What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time? The first significant historical event in my lifetime that I can remember was when the NASA's Space Shuttle Challenger exploded in broad daylight on the air for millions around the world to see live. I wasn't that young when this happened in 1986. I was 18 years old, but it really impacted me because it was so massively built up as a big deal in America because a civilian school teacher was a part of the crew. I still get sad when I allow myself to think about it. However, I am also influenced by the actions of NASA and the bravery of the crews on that fateful day and the crews that followed. They are all resilient and very courageous. These are the kinds of people I admire. The ones who put it all on the line for the advancement of this great nation. I later joined the United States Army in 1987. I wanted to be a part of something bigger than I was. I wanted to do my part, albeit small to advance this great nation. I believe I have. I am no hero, but I did deploy in support of both OIF and OEF on behalf of this great nation and was willing to pay even the ultimate price like so many others have for America. So, even though the Space Shuttle Challenger exploded, the sacrifice of all on board was not wasted. The entire program has advanced by learning from the errors from that fateful voyage. What was your very first job? How long did you have it? My very first job was washing cars at Mockingbird Car Wash in Victoria, Texas. I am not sure exactly, but I believe I worked there for about two years. It was there that I learned about working really hard physically for long hours in hot and cold weather. I believe it in many ways prepared me for military service which is not always glamorous work to say the least! It was at this job that I really began to dream about being a success and being able to actually own a car like the ones I was responsible for cleaning. I also learned quite a bit about working as a team and being proud of the group effort in the end. I learned about customer service too. The customer is always right! Now, I will apply that to the voter! Legislators are responsible for representing the voters within their districts. They are accountable to them and must not waste taxpayer's dollars! What is your favorite book? Why? My favorite book is the bible: The the bible is my favorite book because it is the Word of God and helps me to be the person I believe God wants me to be by providing wisdom, scriptures and true stories from the bible that are still applicable and relevant to this day. If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be? If I could be any fictional character I would be Wonder Woman. What was the last song that got stuck in your head? The theme music from the Rocky movie: The Eye of the Tiger What is something that has been a struggle in your life? I have struggled with understanding why anyone would want our nation to be a socialist nation and what to do about it. I have struggled with not having enough hours in the day to accomplish everything I set out to do in a 24 hour period. I have struggled to help people who do not typically vote for conservative republican candidates to do so. I have struggled with understanding people who do not love this great state and nation. Every state besides Nebraska has two legislative chambers. What do you consider the most important differences between the legislative chambers in your state? One of the most important differences between the two legislative chambers in Texas is size. The House of Representatives consists of 150 members whereas the Senate consists of 31 members. The other significant difference is time in office. Representatives can only serve for two years while senators serve for 4 year terms. There are no term limits for either the House of Representatives or the Senate. So, as long as those elected can continue to be reelected, they can remain in office indefinitely. The Lt. Governor presides over the senate and the Speaker of the House presides over the House of Representatives. Each of these leaders have specific levels of power to use in order to preside in their areas of responsibility. Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics? Yes, I do believe it is beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government and or politics whenever possible. What do you perceive to be your state’s greatest challenges over the next decade? I believe the greatest challenges facing the state of Texas over the next decade are as follows: (1) The population increases over the next decade into Texas will be unprecedented. (2) Texas highways, roads and bridges will have to expand. lengthened, and be strengthened to handle the increase of vehicles on the road that will be used to transport personnel, and goods. (3) The impact of the indoctrination of socialism will begin to produce the poisonous fruit of high taxation and a needy population that does not believe in individual responsibility which will turn our great state totally blue and liberal. (4) The impact of illegal immigration will choke out American culture to the extent that even displaying the American flag will be something that is not accepted or tolerated due to how it will be considered 'offensive.' (5) This state will be challenged with the impact of the culture wars which includes millions born out of wedlock, abortion, drug addiction, pornography addiction, and the decrease in marriage all of which will negatively devastate the Texas economy . What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature? The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one of trust, respect, and transparency. Both the governor and the state legislature should be willing to work together simultaneously always with the greater good in mind. The ideal relationship between the governor and the state legislature should be one that recognizes the powers and limits of each house and how they can work together along with the power of the government to be both extremely effective for Texas citizens and extremely ineffective for Texas citizens. Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer. Yes, I absolutely believe it is beneficial to build relationships with other legislators. The citizens of Texas 'hire'/vote in member of the legislature for the purpose of high quality governance. The best way to arrive at the objective high quality governance will be for the legislators to build strong relationships. For example, there are counties impacted by the ramifications of Hurricane Harvey while some counties were not impacted. Immediately after the disaster, impacted counties needed assistance from other counties with food, water, ice, generators, emergency personnel, debris removal assistance and places to park emergency vehicles. The only way this works is for legislators to have established relationships that can be leveraged in times of crisis. Also, there are times when specific votes will be needed in order for a bill to pass. These numbers can be achieved when relationships have been built and sustained by cooperative legislators. Also, the people of Texas demand legislators find ways to work together in a professional manner driven not by individual motivations, but by a sense of responsibility to do what is best for the greater good. Also good relationships between legislators are necessary in order to deal with freshmen legislators who are new to the legislators. Senior legislators who have a desire to build great relationships with freshmen legislators help to ensure a very strong legislature that can function without any major breaks in the quality of the function of the legislature. So, yes, absolutely, it is critical for the legislators to have strong relationships. If you are not a current legislator, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of? Yes, I want to be a part of the following committees: (1) Redistricting (2) Tourism (3) Transportation (5) Higher Education (6) Corrections (7) Defense and Veterans Affairs (8) Pensions, investments and Financial Services (9) Homeland Security and Public Safety (10) Environmental Regulation If you are a current legislator, what appealed to you about your current committees? N/A If you are not currently a member of your party’s leadership in the legislature, would you be interested in joining the leadership? If so, in what role? Yes, eventually, when I serve at least two terms in the legislature, I will work to become the speaker of the house. Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after? There are many legislators I would like to model myself after. I want to model myself after all legislators who are able and who have accomplished something. I want to model myself after legislators who are efficient, professional, competent, and especially the ones who are in line with the strong values of the republican party. Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future? Not at this time. I just want to become a state representative and do the best job I can. Both sitting legislators and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful? Yes, I have heard many, many stories from Texas residents of district 30 whose lives were deeply impacted by Hurricane Harvey. Their stories heartbreaking although many of them were filled with hope. Unfortunately, I was also told of stories of not having the support they needed from their legislator; the legislator was not available on a regular basis. The later is what drove me to run for office.\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."}]