 HOUSTON
(July 1, 2016) -- Today,
State Rep. Senfronia Th
omp
son (D
-Houston), one of the longest-serving and most respected legislators in Texas h
istory, announced she is running for the Texas Senate seat being vacated by the legendary Rodney Ellis.
"The people of Senate District 13 expect and deserve a voice in the Texas Senate that belongs only to them," said Rep. Thompson. "They demand a voice that will protect their rights no matter the cost, fight for justice no matter the odds, and never lose sight of the fact that we are all created equal."
Rep. Thompson is asking the Democratic precinct chairs in Senate District 13 to choose a successor not only to Sen. Ellis, but to uphold a tradition of excellence that dates back to when the seat was first held by Barbara Jordan, the first African-American woman ever to serve in the Texas Senate.
If elected, Rep. Thompson will be the third African-American woman to serve in the Senate. She will bring with her a dedication to public service that extends back to 1973.
"
For over 42 years, I've had the honor and privilege to work for the people of District 141 to make sure their voices are heard in their State Capitol. That's the same attitude I'll bring with me if I have the honor and privilege of sitting at the desk that belongs to the people of Senate District 13," said Rep. Thompson.
During the 26 years that Senate District 13 was represented by Sen. Ellis, she worked hand-in-hand with him to fight the uphill battles necessary to "let the little dogs eat"; from passing legislation that ensures hard-working Texans be paid a decent wage, to passing legislation that improve access to DNA testing for wrongfully convicted Texans, and that those who commit crimes motivated by racial hatred face swift and severe justice in Texas' courts.
With her strong principles of faith, an unwavering defense of freedom and a staunch belief in fairness, Rep. Thompson exemplifies the American ideal that one person can make a difference. She
takes a back seat to no one when it comes to protecting voting rights, civil rights and women's rights.
Rep. Thompson will continue her fight for a strong public school system, access to quality health care and equal pay for all Texans.
"I remain committed to shape the best policy for the people of my district and this great state. My record is reflective of a strong and unfaltering leadership that I will continue as state senator," added Rep. Thompson.
Democratic precinct chairs will select a Senate District 13 candidate on Saturday,
July 16, 2016. Their nominee will run unopposed.
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