Underdog Spirit: Jolanda Jones Takes on Texas Politics
Jolanda Jones isn’t your conventional candidate for U.S. Congress. As the Texas state representative running in a special election for Texas’s 18th Congressional District on November 4, she embraces her authenticity wholeheartedly. “I’m not your traditional elected official,” Jones openly states, emphasizing that her unique approach resonates with voters who appreciate her genuine nature.
A Campaign on the Move
During a nearly hour-long Zoom interview, Jones showcased her hands-on campaigning style from her car parked outside a Houston voting precinct. Her path was distinctly interactive, as she frequently stepped out to engage directly with potential voters. “My name is Jolanda Jones. What do I have to do to earn your vote?” she asked, distributing pamphlets with fervor and urgency. This personal touch signals her dedication to connecting with the community she hopes to represent.
An Unforeseen Vacancy
Jones stepped into this race after the unexpected passing of former Rep. Sylvester Turner, who held the seat for only two months, following the death of longtime Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. The abrupt vacancy adds a layer of urgency to the election, particularly for Jones, who aims to fill the void left by two impactful leaders.
Advocacy Through Action
An outspoken advocate, Jones made headlines this past summer when she participated in a walkout with fellow Texas Democrats to disrupt legislative proceedings. This protest was aimed at blocking a newly redrawn congressional map that critics claim undermines representation for Black and Latino voters. The ongoing lawsuits argue that the map is racially discriminatory, further illustrating the stark political landscape in Texas.
In a notable exchange, Jones challenged Texas Governor Greg Abbott, who sought to arrest her and other Democratic lawmakers for leaving the state. “I’m a lawyer. There is no felony in the Texas penal code for what he says,” she clarified, emphasizing the lack of legal grounds for such threats. Her spirited remarks reflect a larger trend of defiance among Texas Democrats against perceived overreach from Republican leadership.
Upholding a Legacy
Jones aspires to continue the legacy of “fighters” who have historically represented her district, a diverse area of over 800,000 residents. From Barbara Jordan to Sheila Jackson Lee, the district has a rich history of strong Black leadership. Jones’s determination to be part of this lineage is rooted in her personal journey, which has equipped her with resilience and a deep understanding of her constituents’ struggles.
Fierce and Fearless
When discussing political strategy, Jones recently stirred conversation by arguing that sometimes, fighting “by the rules” may not suffice. While reframing Michelle Obama’s famous quote about taking the high road, she remarked, “If you hit me in my face… I’m going to go across your neck.” Though some interpreted her comments as incendiary, Jones clarified that she meant it figuratively—an expression of her readiness to confront her opponents vigorously.
“I need to fight so hard that you don’t want to fight me no more,” she stated, illustrating her unwavering commitment to advocacy.
A Lifetime of Resilience
Born into hardship, Jones’s life experiences inform her political ethos. Growing up in poverty, she learned the value of resilience early on. Memories of her mother struggling to pay utility bills resonate deeply with Jones. “I can remember in 10th grade, we didn’t have electricity,” she shared, detailing the harsh realities that framed her upbringing.
A house fire tragically destroyed everything they owned, further underscoring the challenges she faced. Jones’s emotional recollection of losing cherished mementos of her late father—a talented artist—reveals the layered trauma that continues to shape her life.
Fighting for the Underrepresented
As she readies to combat the policies of Texas Republicans and the Trump administration, Jones is steadfast in her goal to champion causes that matter to her constituents. “Trump and the Republicans have made nasty the norm,” she asserted. She positions herself as a fierce advocate for accessibility in healthcare and social services, denouncing cuts that disproportionately affect disadvantaged communities.
Jones’s candidacy isn’t just about politics; it’s about being a voice for those often overlooked. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, she intends to stand up against discrimination and to create pathways for marginalized voices within the political sphere.
By channeling her lived experiences, Jones not only aspires to jobs in Congress but aims to redefine what representation means. Her candidacy reflects a growing movement of diverse leaders committed to advocating for the needs of their communities—transforming personal battles into collective triumphs.