Gina Ortiz Jones (D-TX-23)

Gina Ortiz Jones

Gina Ortiz Jones is running to represent the 23rd District of Texas in the United States House of Representatives.

Jones is running against Republican incumbent Will Hurd in the November 6 general election. Jones is an Iraq veteran with years of experience in national security and defense who has spent her career demonstrating a dedication to civil service. If elected, Jones would be the first openly lesbian woman from Texas serve in Congress. This election in one of Texas’ only swing districts is an opportunity to fill a congressional seat with a highly qualified, progressive woman.

Background and Achievements

Gina Ortiz Jones is a first-generation Filipina-American. Raised by a mother who immigrated to the United States, Jones saw first-hand how immigration makes our country stronger. Jones learned about the importance of access to affordable healthcare when her mother, a single woman who worked multiple jobs to support her daughters, was diagnosed with colon cancer. Healthcare coverage was essential in her mother’s survival. Jones was also raised to believe in the importance of education; she earned an Air Force ROTC scholarship to go to college and entered the Air Force when she graduated. She served in Iraq under the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Following her active duty service, Jones continued to work in national security, defense and intelligence for many years. She later served as the Senior Advisor for Trade Enforcement, a position created by President Obama in 2012, and then as Director for Investment at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representation. Jones was recognized as a 2016 American Council on Germany Young Leader and is a Council on Foreign Relations Team Member. She is also a member of the Truman National Security Project Defense Council.

Positions on Key Issues

  • Supports the Equal Rights Amendment
  • Believes reproductive healthcare decisions should be between a woman and her doctor
  • Will work in Congress to end discriminatory practices in employment, housing, education, credit-services, health care, family planning, and public accommodations
  • Advocates for equal pay for equal work
  • Supports DACA and will fight to protect Dreamers
  • Believes that healthcare should be affordable and accessible for all Americans

Prospects & Opponents

Gina Ortiz Jones won the Democratic nomination in the Democratic Runoff.

Texas’ 23rd is one of the currently Republican-held districts won by Hillary Clinton in 2016 and is the one of the only true swing districts in Texas. The 2018 general election for the 23rd District of Texas has been rated a toss-up by Sabato’s Crystal Ball and Inside Elections.

Endorsements

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