The signs are everywhere. Americans are "stressed out" about politics. They're "exceptionally anxious" about the political system. They're dissatisfied with both parties.
I don't blame them. I feel the same way. While I was elected as a Republican — the ticket that was available for me to run for office — I have no problem calling out the party and what has become of it.
But recently, marking the Easter holiday, I got to thinking about our God-given lives. What are we doing with them? It's easy to get busy and lose sight of it, but there is a bigger purpose. We get to live in a way that points back to Him — in our families, our work, and the everyday choices we make.
Easter and the Jewish holiday of Passover both mark a time of spring renewal. All of us could use that sense of renewal. Here are a couple of ways I plan to bring that mindset to my work for the people of Texas' 143rd Judicial District.
Tackling Government Corruption and White-Collar Crime
I inherited a disastrous office that had faced no real accountability for 28 years, as one failed D.A. held onto the position. The more I've dug into the mess he left behind, the more I've seen the dangers of government corruption and white-collar crime.
It can start in little ways. A government official does something illegal, but the prosecutor knows the person and decides to shrug it off. A business executive with considerable influence breaks a law, but the prosecutor looks away. In both cases, the perpetrator has power and influence, and the prosecutor wants to stay on their good side, maybe even hoping the person will help them down the line.
This has to stop.
I have jurisdiction over felony cases, not misdemeanors. Some cases, both old and new, involve alleged felonies by government officials or business leaders. I'm giving those cases the focus they deserve.
Fortunately, I now have an assistant district attorney who can take on some of the domestic violence and sexual assault cases on our roster.
Governmental Transparency
There's also another step I can take: using my public platform to help demystify the government. I've come to understand how crucial this is. The more people understand how things work, the more empowered they can be in their own lives.
For example, I plan to speak out more about why some cases become unprosecutable. Far too many cases have come across my desk in which it's clear that the person is almost surely guilty, but there simply isn't enough evidence. When I know I won't be able to prove a case beyond a reasonable doubt, I have a legal and ethical obligation to dismiss a case.
Some victims are understandably wary of coming forward. Some don't hold onto crucial evidence at the time. Some witnesses refuse to speak. But at other times, even when victims and witnesses are brave and cooperative, the evidence still may not be strong enough. I have to let likely perpetrators walk free.
People should know how often this happens. And they should know what to do if they're the victim of a crime. It's time to air this "dirty laundry."
There's a luxury in not knowing these things, perhaps even a feeling of greater safety. But the more we all learn about these problems, the more we can work together to notice and report crime in our communities, saving evidence that could be beneficial down the line.
My work isn't glamorous; it's not meant to be. It's about using the time and opportunities to fight for what's right.
Each of us can do this. Wherever you are, and whatever holidays you celebrate, I encourage you to consider how you can renew a commitment to doing the best you can with your skills and experience.
When we do this, we make things a little brighter. We cut through that stress and anxiety, and offer reasons for optimism. We build community.