Molly Cook

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

I am a nurse, community organizer, and the incumbent Senator representing District 15. In addition to years of grassroots organizing for Democrats, I have a Master of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University and ten years of experience as a bedside nurse.

As a woman who has had an abortion in this state, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and the only Democratic healthcare professional in the Texas Senate, I bring a public health lens and community-minded approach to all of our team’s work.

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 Texas legislature is responsible for fully funding our public schools, paying our teachers what they deserve, and keeping public money in traditional public schools.

All nine school districts that touch Senate District 15 are facing a struggle directly related to the Texas Legislature: school closures, state takeover, underfunding, ballooning class sizes, etc. I will co-govern with all impacted stakeholders to achieve a shared vision where every child has access to high-quality education.

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

Recent storms and power outages highlighted the importance of reliable, affordable power for public health and safety, emphasizing the need for a diversified energy mix. As an organizer committed to climate justice, I recognize the need for renewable energy and the importance of creating safe jobs for the working people of Texas. By adding more clean energy to the grid, we can reap environmental benefits and foster economic growth while ensuring reliable power for all Texans.

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?

I had a procedural abortion in 2014. It was emotionally difficult, expensive, and difficult to access. It shouldn’t have been.

Seeking any reproductive healthcare is a personal decision guided by healthcare professionals, loved ones, and our beliefs. Texans do not have access to the full, data driven spectrum of healthcare. All Texans should be able to consider every option, and their state should support them and ensure safe care.

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.

Medicaid Expansion: As an ER nurse, witnessing patterns of suffering inspired me to earn my public health degree and run for office. Texas has shamefully high numbers of uninsured people. To prevent harm and suffering, everyone must have access to quality, affordable healthcare.

Voter Engagement: We will never see the change in Texas that we seek until we increase turnout. I believe our only hope is year round, sustained voter engagement that meets real needs and supports community cohesion.