By Sen. César J. Blanco
El Paso, with its unique blend of culture and tradition, contributes significantly to the rich tapestry that is Texas. Our voices echo through the Franklin Mountains and streets, reminding us that our democracy is strongest when it reflects the diversity of its citizens.
We are on the cusp of a historic shift for our state’s electoral politics with Texas closer than ever to turning blue. We all have a critical part to play in this pivotal moment and the pathway to securing victory begins in El Paso at the 2024 Texas Democratic Convention, from June 6-8.
From the bustling markets of the historic Segundo Barrio to the serene beauty of the Franklin Mountains and the selfless service members stationed at Fort Bliss – El Paso embodies the essence of our great state – and our community is thrilled to welcome thousands of Texans joining us for this celebration of Democratic values, taking place in just a few short weeks.
In Texas, we know that simply showing up to the ballot box is not enough. Our fight for working families doesn’t end in November. The organizing work done daily by El Paso Democrats impacts the important work done in the Capitols in Austin and Washington D.C. That’s why I’m honored to lead our Texas Democratic Convention in partnership with my Co-Chair, Congresswoman Veronica Escobar because we will all take important action that will help reelect President Biden, elect Colin Allred to the U.S. Senate and tack on more victories here across Texas.
We’re working day and night to encourage our Party’s rank-and-file members to take an active role as delegates in the Democratic convention process, both locally and at the state and national levels. By attending these conventions and assuming the role of delegates – our neighbors become the architects of the political future they envision. At these forums, we move beyond narrow ideological divides and zero in on the shared principles that bind us together.
In Austin, I’ve been fighting to ensure world-class public education, accessible healthcare, top-notch reproductive care, economic stability, improved healthcare and support for fellow military veterans, and a sustainable future for generations to come. And after a white supremacist with a weapon of war attacked our community in 2019 – I wanted to continue the fight to keep our communities safer. But now, Texas faces a new threat: the rise of far-right extremism.
Texas is poised to be at the epicenter of the 2024 General Election, and Democrats are keenly aware of the stakes. We will mobilize voters on issues that truly affect Texas families, and reject divisive culture wars and the power struggles of billionaires. As November 5th approaches, we are ready to engage, advocate, and demonstrate to voters that Democrats offer real solutions to Texas’ challenges.
With 30 million people – Texas is the most diverse state in the Union. Our broad coalition made of all walks of life is dedicated to empowering working families and securing a brighter future for the generations that follow our lead. With support from local, top-of-the-ticket and nationally recognized Democrats like Congressman Colin Allred – our party remains unified as we work to take our state back.
Texas Democrats, let’s claim this moment with unwavering resolve. Every election cycle is an opportunity for our party to build relationships with Texas voters — and this year is unlike any other we’ve seen before. As state delegates united, we’ll mold a future that reflects the ideals of every Texan. Our democracy hangs in the balance, underscoring our collective effort to amplify every voice, count every vote, and defend representation for all Texans.
I hope to see you at the Texas Democratic Convention in Downtown El Paso June 6-8 to kick-off the start of this election year. To learn more, visit TexasDemocraticConvention.com and pre-register for your local conventions before the March 23rd, 2024 deadline.
César J. Blanco represents the 29th District in the Texas Senate, which includes El Paso and seven other counties.
