On The Record: Hal Ray

This week I visited with Hal Ray, State Democratic Executive Committeeman from Senate District 30.

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

I have been interested in politics all my life. I have always been interested in the process. I remember being in third grade and trying to convince people to vote for Hubert instead of Nixon.

What was your personal progression from the role of activist to the role of SDEC Committeeman?

I have been involved in numerous campaigns over the years. I began political work in college, then began involvement in law school at the University of Texas. I was a delegate at the state convention for years. I was able to help David Farabee in his first campaign when he ran for city council in Wichita Falls. I block-walked for numerous campaigns as well, and then I worked in the Attorney General's office in Fort Worth. In 2002, I ran for State Senate and was unsuccessful.

What would you say are the primary issues concerning Parker County?

In Parker County, the issues arising are from the tremendous amounts of gas being drilled, along with the new growth of the county. The development has been enormous, and this has led to the need for better roads and water regulation.

How do local politics affect your family?

I live in a rural subdivision, and we are being directly affected in Weatherford. There is a strong need for control and regulation of ground water.

How do state politics affect your neighborhood?

I am in the Eastern part of Parker County and statewide there is a concern for education reform. The TAKS testing procedures are affecting everyone. My neighbors and I worry about the rising cost of higher education and the effects it will have on working people and their ability to send their kids to college. Another issue we are all watching is the Trans Texas Corridor; we are waiting to see if it will be placed on the east or west of Fort Worth, because that will have a direct impact on our neighborhood and surrounding areas.

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

I have experienced running for public office and, unfortunately, being unsuccessful affects my desire to run again for public office. I would be honored to run again if the opportunity arises, but I am focused on the SDEC level right now and helping the party be it's best from where I am right now. I definitely won't rule it out, though.

Who are some of your political heroes?

To start, Barbara Jordan was a pioneer in Texas politics. I listened to her during the Watergate hearing, and I found her knowledge and respect of the Constitution inspiring. I think we need someone like that now to lead.

Harry Truman was another inspiration. He was plain spoken and decisive, a true leader. Also Kirk Watson, an old friend of mine. He is dynamic, caring, articulate and a wonderful leader.

I mentioned working on David Farabee's campaign earlier; he truly is a politician who votes for what he believes and then deals with the consequences if necessary. He is consistently voted into office in a Republican area, which proves his accountability and appeal.

Lastly, Halbert Woodward was respected by many in his field. He was appointed by Lyndon B. Johnson as a judge in the U.S. District court and did an exceptional job. He addressed civil rights and jail crowding, along with many other issues. He epitomized what a public servant should be.

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

September 11, 2001. It was my forty first birthday. Politically, it had a tremendous impact on the way government is seen by voters.

What are you looking forward to in the coming cycle?

I'm looking forward to seeing a Democratic leader elected President. It's always exciting to approach a cycle with open seats. Eight years with George W. Bush will be over and we can move to someone new. I am determined to make sure it is a Democrat elected into that seat.

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

My parents were both Democrats. I remember my dad voting for Sissy Farenthold when I was growing up. My parents always supported me. My wife, Nan is also a Democrat, but my children are too young to vote.

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

Be as active as you can while finishing school or working. Be patient with other workers and your experience. I have found politics is a marathon, not a sprint. No matter how involved you are with one candidate, there will always be another candidate and another election. I would advise anyone to get experience, good or bad. Staying optimistic and positive means a long career ahead of you.

Have you ever worked or wanted to work professionally in politics?

Not really; I've had the luxury of being involved in politics without being the paid professional type. I am able to support different candidates and discuss politics while working as a lawyer; it's another facet of the political system. I prefer to be more of a volunteer type in order to help candidates directly.

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

Positive people that are willing to work. Most people would say money is the most important factor; it definitely helps, but the life blood of a political organization is people. People that transmit enthusiasm for a cause or a candidate are invaluable. In the end, you're not able to elect candidates if the people in the organization aren't behind the candidate.

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

How important it is to trust people and recognize differences. Like-minded people work best together when they cooperate, and they wok towards a common goal by setting aside differences. People must move forward with their commonalities, not divisiveness.

Tell us a little bit about the SDEC, and what roles you feel like you fulfill in that group, official or otherwise.

I am a Committeeman for SDEC 30, and I represent Democrats in that district by expressing their views to the state party. I also share information the state party has back to my district. I concentrate on communication with the districts in order to have common bonds and congregate. My area is meeting several times a year, and I'm working with Victoria Winter for an event in 2007.