Listening to the People of TX30: What America’s Shutdown Really Looks Like

In the heart of Dallas—right here in TX30—you don’t have to look far to see how broken Washington has become. But instead of sitting in a studio, I hit the streets to do something too many politicians have forgotten how to do: listen.

Because if we’re serious about serving the people, we have to start by hearing the people.

A Conversation About Immigration

Our first conversation was with Jaru Edwin, visiting from the Virgin Islands.

“My parents are from the Caribbean, a third-world country,” Jaru said. “So I get why people want to come here. But I do agree—you should do it the right way. Be a legal immigrant, a citizen, if you want the benefits of America.”

That’s the kind of honest, balanced perspective you don’t hear much from politicians. It’s not about hate or division—it’s about fairness and respect for those who follow the law.

Healthcare and the Shutdown

Next, we met Christina, whose mother was a retired schoolteacher struggling to afford healthcare.

“People deserve the right to healthcare—not illegal aliens. My mom’s premium shouldn’t be what it is,” she said. “Keep it shut down until we figure out what’s going on.”

She wasn’t just frustrated—she was heartbroken. A woman who gave her life to teaching shouldn’t be forced to choose between groceries and prescriptions. That’s why insurance reform and accountability are long overdue.

When Politics Hurts the People

Then came Kesha, who didn’t hold back.

“It’s both parties’ fault. We’re the ones out here working, trying to eat, and they’re playing games in D.C. We’re sick of it.”

She’s right. Whether you’re Republican, Democrat, or Independent, you’re feeling the same thing: a government that’s forgotten who it works for. Americans are tired of political theater. We need real leadership that puts people before parties.

The Cost of Division

Across several conversations—from Antonio to Alex Gore, a local businessman—one message kept coming through loud and clear:

People are hurting, and Washington isn’t listening.

“It’s awful,” Alex said. “We’ve seen a slowdown in affordable housing. People aren’t getting help. Both sides need to reopen the government—people need to eat.”

These aren’t talking points. These are Texans living with the consequences of political gridlock.

The People’s Perspective

Some, like Felix Johnson, sympathized with immigrants but questioned fairness.

“We all deserve to be treated right,” he said. “But I don’t think it’s fair for the government to take my hard-earned money and give it to people who just got here.”

It’s not about being anti-anyone—it’s about prioritizing Americans who’ve built this country, paid taxes, and played by the rules.

Real Talk from Everyday Texans

Finally, we met Jasmine and Jojo from Seguin, Texas—young women out celebrating a birthday but still tuned in to what’s happening.

“Nobody should rely on the government,” Jasmine said. “If you’re able-bodied, you should be working. Help should go to the elderly, disabled, and veterans.”

“Vote on behalf of the people,” Jojo added. “Not your own interests.”

A Simple Truth

This isn’t about left or right. It’s about listening.

When we take the time to hear what real people are saying—mothers, workers, veterans, students—we learn that America’s heartbeat still beats strong. But it’s tired of being ignored.

That’s what the Sholdon Daniels campaign is all about: listening to TX30 so we can lead for TX30.

Because leadership starts with listening.

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