On The Record: Theresa Daniel

For this episode of On The Record, we speak with Theresa Daniel, Committeewoman for Senate District 16 from Dallas.

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

I saw the importance in politics and the role it played in people’s lives when I was a Vista volunteer in Starr county, which is located right on the U.S.-Mexico border and is one of the poorest counties in the country. I witnessed how politics was used to make life better for the people.

What was your personal progression from the role of activist to the role of Committeewoman for Senate District 16?

I moved to Dallas County in 1977 and was a phone banker for the John Hill for Governor campaign and began immediately to become involved. I ended up working for various campaigns, and I was hired by Martin Frost as a Congressional staffer in his District office. I also worked on the Dukakis campaign. In 1996, I ran for the SDEC Committeewoman position.

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

In order to get the message out, you have to get people elected. With electing candidates into position as a major goal, you have to organize your troops to get the vote out to the swing voters.

How do local politics affect your family?

I’m a big believer that all politics are local, in particular, everything Federal and statewide affects our community. The state legislature affects our air quality, education and transportation because they affect the funding for our communities.

What are you looking forward to in the coming cycle?

I'm looking forward to a very, very good foundation to build upon. Winning won’t be easy, though. We did so well in 2006 that it has angered the opposition. The Republicans will be looking for a fight, and we’re ready to give it to them.

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

The way the Dallas County Democratic Party is set up now; there are many ways to be involved. From computer literacy to how the office is run, giving rides to the polls, placing signs or phone banking are all options to become involved. Having organized structure allows for people to help more easily.

I will tell the youth: Come on down, the water is fine. Contacting the county office is the best way to get involved, and we are open to pairing people with the best facet of their ability.