Brett Robinson

What training, experience, and characteristics qualify you for this position?

I recently earned my Masters in Public Administration from the University of Houston this past May. During my college career, I was heavily involved on campus and my community. I served as Undergraduate At-Large Senator, Cub Camp Counselor and Co-Chair, and UH Democrats Vice President. The MPA program has given me core skills in areas such as public management, public budgeting, and policy implementation, but my favorite activity is using data analysis to craft solutions for policy problems.

Article 7 of the Texas Constitution states that “it shall be the duty of the Legislature of the State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools.” What is your interpretation of what this clause requires of the legislature?

The clause is clear. I view public education as the cornerstone of our economy and democracy. I grew up in public schools, and I want the next generation to have the same opportunities that were afforded to me. But beyond that, it is common sense that our democracy requires an educated citizenry. With the recent push towards vouchers, there is a real threat that we move significantly backwards. I will oppose the voucher scam and all other efforts to defund our public schools.

How will you ensure that Texas remains a leader in the energy sector through innovation and reliability?

The winter freeze in 2021 was a wake-up call to how vulnerable our grid is to natural disasters, and Beryl is proof that our leaders have failed to fix the grid. Texas must take full advantage of the infrastructure law passed by the Biden administration to finance reliability projects. In addition, Texas is host to the energy capital of the world and can truly influence green energy policy. We must invest in green energy, but we need to be careful not to subsidize billion-dollar corporations.

What do you believe is the appropriate role of the State of Texas in ensuring that Texans have access to reproductive healthcare, family planning, and pregnancy care and postpartum services?

My top priority is to restore reproductive freedom. We just recently had a fifty-year precedent overturned with the Dobbs decision, and we are seeing states all over the nation attacking women's autonomy, IVF, and contraception. My opponent is the author of the abortion ban in Texas, which provides no exception for rape or incest. His role in the loss of this fundamental right is why I got into the race. As someone who wants to start a family one day, I promise to have your back.

What other issues are high priorities for the people of your district? Please give specific examples of measurable actions that you will take to address these issues.

-Healthcare access and affordability. I strongly support expanding Medicaid, as Texas has the largest uninsured rate in the nation.
-Protect unions. Texas is a "right to work" state, and it is furthering the wealth gap. We must allow workers to collectively bargain for good wages and benefits.
-Gun violence prevention. Revoke the reckless permit-less carry law and require licenses to carry again. Pass background checks and red flag laws that help to keep us safe.