Democrat State Rep. Julie Johnson of Farmers Branch has announced she will be giving up her seat in the Texas House in an attempt to move up to U.S. Congress.
Johnson quickly announced support from liberal groups such as the American Federation of Teachers and the Human Rights Campaign after announcing this week.
She will be running for the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Colin Allred (D–Dallas), who is not seeking re-election and is instead mounting a campaign for the U.S. Senate against Sen. Ted Cruz.
Having served in the Texas House since 2019, Johnson has been one of the chamber’s most liberal members—earning a 20 on the recently released Fiscal Responsibility Index.
In her announcement video, Johnson describes herself as “a Democrat, and experienced fighter, and an LGBT Texan.”
“I’m Julie Johnson, and I’m running for Congress with the experience to turn the tables in Washington to make government work for you,” she adds.
Julie Johnson is running for Congress because our communities are under attack. From every table – the kitchen, the courtroom, & the Texas Legislature – Julie knows how to get the job done and how to win the toughest battles. Julie will make Washington work for you. #ImWithJulie pic.twitter.com/NeHnbsnLeU
— Julie Johnson for Congress (@juliejohnsonTX) June 20, 2023
Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan empowered Johnson this last session by making her the vice chair of the Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence.
Democrat Cassandra Hernandez has already announced her intention to run for Johnson’s seat in the Texas House.
