On The Record: Bill Kelly

This week I sat down with Bill Kelly, Chief of Staff for State Representative Ellen Cohen.

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

My mother taught special education in a public school, so you could say I was born to be a Democrat. In college, I never changed my major; I knew it was what I wanted to do. I believe government, for better of worse, is the tool best suited to deal with societal problems, like special education, for example.

What was your personal progression from the role of activist to the Chief of Staff role for State Representative Ellen Cohen?

Well, I began block walking for Ann Richards at the age of ten. More recently, I was the Deputy Field Director in 2003 for Bill White, the mayor of Houston. This led to the Field Director position working for Representative Vo and campaign manager for the Peter Brown campaign in 2005.

What would you say are the primary issues concerning the area of Houston you're from?

The voters in my area are very well-informed. They expect their representatives to be well-informed as well and make progress regarding the issues they feel strongly about. Stem cell research is a huge issue for the people in the district. The area is losing talented doctors due to laws limiting the research. The CHIP program is important, because the voters realize preventative health care for children eventually saves money for the state. Improving air quality in Houston is a big topic of discussion as well, because it also is a factor for improving health care.

How do local politics affect your family?

Education is a priority for me, being that my mother was a public school teacher. I am an adviser to my college fraternity so rising college tuition is an issue. I believe college should be available to everyone who has a desire to learn. Texas was the only state in the union to cut public funding for education, and I question what effect this has on the employment community. When businesses look to expand, they want to develop in the best educated areas. Cutting money for education hurts the economy, in the end.

How do state politics affect your neighborhood?

Again, air quality is important in my area, especially for me. Being asthmatic while living in Houston is not easy.

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

Right now I'm focusing on assisting Ellen Cohen in being the best State Representative possible for district 134.

Who are some of your political heroes?

I had the privilege of working with Mayor White and his actions during Hurricane Katrina were truly inspiring. He worked with County Judge Robert Eckles to ensure the victims of the hurricane were the first priority in every situation. Mayor White exemplified true leadership. Houston exceeded all expectations and saved over 100,000 lives. Mayor White crossed political boundaries to help people, he absolutely was an inspiration.

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

Working with Representative Vo on his campaign was incredible. His opponent outspent him by two or three times and Representative Vo won. I think the voters finally had enough of the lack of leadership in the area and were putting their foot down by electing more Democratic leadership. This was a response to the political stalemate caused by redistricting and led to the first Democratic gain in terms of House seats since the early 1970s. The Republicans finally pushed the voters enough and they responded by voting in Democrats.

What are you looking forward to in the coming cycle?

Dallas County had huge accomplishments in 2006 and I think Harris County has a real opportunity to do the same in 2008. The people have a chance to really get excited for the local and presidential candidates and make a difference with their vote. The candidates are very exciting and promising.

What would you say the political breakdown of your family is? Is it mostly Democratic or are you somewhat unique?

While my mother was a special education teacher, my father was an electrician with IBEW, so they were both Democrats.

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

People need to really think about the difference they can make. If you are tired of something, like research, Perry, or tuition rates, your involvement can change things. Working in local races is a great place to start. If you find something you are passionate about, you can make a difference if you get involved.

What one thing would you say a political organization never has enough of?

Focus. Everyone needs to realize the candidate is the priority. The focus is "What can I do to help?" We are all there for one thing, proving the voter can trust the candidate.

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

Be as truthful as you can. Being truthful on a personal level makes all the difference when you're trying to reach a voter. When dealing with the public, you must hold yourself to a higher standard.

Tell us a little bit about Rep. Ellen Cohen's office, and what roles you fulfill in that environment, official or otherwise.

Right now I am the Press Secretary, Policy Director, and Chief Administration Officer. I will be moving back to the District 134 to be an official contact in the area.