Annise Parker Announces Campaign for Harris County Judge

Return to Public Service

• 💡 Annise Parker, former Mayor of Houston, is re-entering politics after seven years running a nonpartisan organization focused on electing LGBT candidates.
• 🎯 She believes that local politics still works, despite challenges in Washington and Austin, and feels a renewed passion for public service.

Passion for Local Governance

• 🔑 Parker is drawn to the responsibilities of Harris County government, including emergency management, public safety, public health, and infrastructure.
• 🚀 These are areas she previously worked on as mayor and believes require a steady hand at the wheel.

Campaign Strategy and Incumbent

• 📌 Parker is running for Harris County Judge, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the incumbent, Lena Hidalgo's, intentions to seek re-election.
• 🏆 She emphasizes that she is running for the job and believes her extensive track record, including winning nine citywide races, makes her a formidable candidate.

Addressing Washington's Dysfunction Locally

• ⚠️ Parker highlights how national issues, such as potential dismantling of FEMA and cuts to Medicaid/Medicare, directly impact local government responsibilities.
• 🛠️ She stresses the need for local leaders to be prepared to handle major disasters and healthcare needs independently due to potential federal disruptions.

Leadership and Priorities

• 🧠 Parker brings experience in leadership and the ability to work across aisles and jurisdictions, combined with new ideas learned from her time out of office.
• ✅ Her top priority for Harris County is public safety, which encompasses emergency management, flood control, and ensuring adequate funding and focus for law enforcement and public health services.