Op-Ed: Central Texas deserves better than Rep. John Carter

Back in 2003, Texas’ newly formed 31st Congressional District elected its first representative: Republican John Carter. That was over two decades ago, when dial-up internet was the norm, flip phones were cutting edge, and Friday nights meant a trip to Blockbuster. I was a high school sophomore then, and I, like this district, have changed a lot since. The same can’t be said for our leadership.

During his tenure, Carter has backed repeated efforts to dismantle protections for preexisting health conditions, including voting for the American Health Care Act in 2017 and opposing measures that shield Medicare and CHIP recipients. Just last month, he voted for a Republican budget that would raise energy costs, add to the national debt, and strip healthcare from millions, including seniors in nursing homes and kids.

That bill isn’t an outlier for Carter. Take the CHIPS and Science Act. It brought billions of dollars to U.S. semiconductor manufacturing and included a huge win for Taylor: Samsung’s advanced chip plant, plus more high-tech investment across Central Texas. But when the bill came up for a vote, Carter said no. He later applauded the local job creation and economic growth the bill made possible, but only after it passed without his support. Votes like that matter. They reveal whose future he’s really fighting for, and too often, it’s not ours.

At 83, Carter is voting for policies the rest of us—especially our kids—will be left paying for.

Unfortunately, Republicans’ mid-decade attempt to redraw Texas’ Congressional map will give Carter further license to operate without any incentive for accountability to those he represents. He’s benefited from gerrymandering throughout his time in Congress, occupying a safely red district. Not surprisingly, Carter recently said, “I support President Trump, and I will run and win in any district I’m given.” The last time I checked, members of Congress aren’t “given” the districts they represent. They are meant to earn our votes.

Having power isn’t leadership. Listening, showing up, and being accountable—that’s leadership. But when you represent a seat that’s been drawn with the exclusive purpose of securing your seat like it’s a throne, officials like John Carter simply stop listening.

This district deserves leadership that matches the moment we’re living in today. That’s why I’m running for Congress—not to score political points, and not because I pledge allegiance to any party. I’m not a politician. I’m a working mom and an Army veteran who knows we need real, workable solutions that make life better and put everyone on a more prosperous path.

I’ll address immigration issues with stronger border security, a humane pathway to legal status, and smart policies that address the root causes of illegality. I’ll vote to lower healthcare and housing costs while focusing on attracting well-paying jobs in emerging industries. And I’ll reach across the aisle to solve infrastructure challenges with smart federal investments.

These aren’t partisan ideas; they’re just common sense.

Thanks to rapid population growth, Texas’ current 31st Congressional District is now home to more than 860,000 residents. Families, young professionals, veterans, and new businesses are planting roots and shaping our region’s future. Williamson County alone has grown by 129% since Carter first took office. Bell County has grown by 59% and Burnet County by nearly 40%. Coryell and Bosque counties have also seen steady population increases.

As our communities grow and become more diverse, dynamic, and future-focused, we’re still represented by someone whose votes and vision remain stuck in the past. That’s not me. I am looking at the future.

Politics often feels hopeless. I don’t blame anyone for feeling cynical, losing trust, or thinking the system has left them behind. With crushing headlines about redistricting and longtime members like Carter still at the wheel, I’ve felt that frustration too. But I’m not ready to give up. TX‑31 needs a representative who listens, shows up, and stays connected to the people who live here, not someone stuck in 2003.

Our communities have changed. They’ve grown. They’re focused on the future. We deserve a representative who’s ready to grow with us. I’m ready to earn your trust by listening, showing up, and doing the work. Let’s build a future that works for everyone. I’m ready for that challenge. I’m excited to get to work.