On The Record: Barb Walters

For this episode of On The Record, we speak with Barb Walters, president of the Texas Democratic Women of Collin County.

How did you get started in politics? Did you come to it in your youth or later on?

I have always been an active community volunteer. I try to stay informed on local, state and national issues, and I vote regularly in all elections, not just the presidential election every four years.

It was not until the 2004 presidential election that I became so passionately and politically active. I was not working outside the home at the time and went from a one-day volunteer to the volunteer coordinator at the Collin County Democrats' office during the election.

From left: Barb's son Kevin Walters, a family friend, and Barb

How do state politics affect your neighborhood?

Policies and laws made at the state level affect our education system, health care system, taxes -- you name it.

However, I do not have a good sense of my neighbors' involvement in politics. We are not as neighborly as we were back in the days of front porches and knowing everyone on the block.

Do you have any ambition for office? Do you have plans to run for any party office, or possibly even public office?

I have considered running for a party or public office but have not decided yet. The timing has not been right. I tend to take on leadership roles and try to make a difference in my community, so I would not rule out that possibility.

Who are some of your political heroes?

Barbara Jordan, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton are my political heroes.

What are some important issues facing Collin County right now?

Indigent health care, open green space, transportation and toll roads — these are the topics from the recent bond issues and are very relevant to all of us in the County.

What would you say has been the single most defining moment in your political life?

After Al Gore was not named president after he won the election, and George W. Bush was re-elected were defining moments in my political life.

What are you looking forward to in the coming cycle?

I look forward to more Democrats being elected, and especially to winning back the presidency. My hope is that the outcome will be a return to a two-party system, distinct separation of the 3 branches of government and a return to more civil discourse.

What advice would you give to young people just getting into politics?

Learn the history of your country so your make decisions in that context, take an interest in politics and be able to articulate your opinions. Register to vote and consider running for office.

What has been the most valuable lesson you have learned in politics?

There is power in one vote — be informed, spread the word, and vote.