On The Record: Vickie Vogel

For this episode of On The Record, we speak with Vickie Vogel, Committeewoman for Senate District 18.

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

My first campaign was in 1964 — Johnson v. Goldwater. I was in high school. My American history teacher, Tom Humber, wanted us to keep up with current events, and that led me to an interest in politics. I volunteered in that campaign and a few local races.

What was your personal progression from being interested in politics and the issues to actually becoming involved?

My interest and involvement happened almost simultaneously. I was living in Dallas when President Kennedy was shot, which made me feel personally responsible to do something. That tragic event and Mr. Humber's teaching style pushed me into activism.

What would you say are the primary issues concerning the state and your district?

I believe the legislature needs to learn what is important and what is peripheral. Instead of spending so much of their time on lifestyle issues, medical decision-making and questions of religious philosophy, they need to look around at real people and the important problems they face in their lives — such as environmental degradation, health insurance, education, and the practical issues surrounding them. These are matters on which government can have a truly positive impact if the will to govern is there.

What would you say are the primary issues concerning your district?

Our district is largely rural. The Trans-Texas Corridor would cut right through it, and there is widespread opposition to it. Farmers and ranchers are concerned about the National Animal Identification System. Urban districts want our water. Quality, affordable health care is a major concern everywhere, but especially in rural areas where choices are limited. In addition, urban centers in our district are concerned with issues of growth and infrastructure improvement. There is a growing awareness of the impact climate change will have on agriculture, in addition to everything else. Funding for our parks is important to the voters in our district, and of course property taxes are always a subject of conversation. The issue of open space should receive greater attention.

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. I believe my abilities are best suited to representing my district on the SDEC.

Who are some of your political heroes?

First and foremost, Ann Richards. I admire Madeleine Albright and looked up to Yitzhak Rabin. Lyndon Johnson, Ralph Yarborough and Barbara Jordan are heroes for their defense of the powerless.

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

The 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago was a body blow to those of us who came of age in the 1960's.

What are you looking forward to in the coming cycle?

I look forward to the great awakening that started with the last election as voters turn to the Democratic Party in ever greater numbers for leadership. We can at last begin to repair the damage we, the world, and the planet have suffered under this administration and a Republican Congress.

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

My mother and my mother- and father-in-law were good Democrats, but sadly, they are gone. Of those family members who make their politics known, I can think of ten Democrats and three Republicans.

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

Remember that battles are seldom won irrevocably. Even when you win, you have to stay alert to those who would undermine or reverse the victory. Whether first said by Curran, Phillips, or Jefferson, the sentiment is true: Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.

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

The thoughtful attention of an informed electorate.

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

As Sam Houston said, "Do right and risk the consequences."