On The Record: Madeleine Dewar

For this episode of On The Record, we speak with Madeleine Dewar, Committeewoman for SD 26 from San Antonio.

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

When I was 11-years-old, I brought roses to Maime Eisenhower when they were on their whistle stop tour. My mom was always very involved.

I voted for George McGovern for my first Democratic vote. My first vote would’ve been for JFK, but the voting age was 21 at that time.

What would you say are the primary issues concerning San Antonio?

Health care is a very big issue here and the need for well-paid employment in our area.

Better education is a priority here. There are very, very poor school districts in this city not getting the adequate resources, and there are kids not receiving a proper education. This has to change.

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

No, all I want to be is a liberal, political activist.

Who are some of your political heroes?

Dwight Eisenhower, Mahatma Gandhi and John F. Kennedy are heroes of mine.

John and Zada True-Courage are local activists who are great political leaders and local heroes. They have co-founded the True Courage Action Network, a nonpartisan grassroots organization based in Austin and San Antonio.

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

I think it’s important to be registered to vote. Also, become active somewhere, whether it’s a local party or campaign, and learn everything you can about how politics works. I also recommend having fun.

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

Be absolutely and totally grateful of every, single volunteer that walks in the door and remind them of that every time you see them.