With early voting underway in Texas, who can a liberal or progressive support in 2014? 

And given how low our expectations are here in Texas, who can we vote for who isn't a far right wing extremist?    

I'll also be focusing on a small number of races in Harris County, Texas. I live in Houston.

Early voting in Texas ends on Friday, October 31. General Election Day is Tuesday, November 4.  

Here is my ballot----

Governor of Texas: Wendy Davis 

I wish Ms. Davis had run a campaign more focused on economic issues and the refusal of the State of Texas to accept the expansion of health care from the Affordable Care Act.  We need to expand turnout in Texas. But Ms.Davis is who we have for the top spot on the ballot. She could be worse. 

Lt. Governor of Texas: Leticia Van De Putte 

Ms. Van De Putte has run a hopeful and energetic campaign against far right-wing extremist Dan Patrick.
Given the power of the Lt. Governor over the Texas State Senate, I'd ask that people consider looking at Dan Patrick's record and discussing this race with fellow Texans.  

United States Senator from Texas: Emily Sanchez

With Democratic U.S. Senate nominee David Almaeel headed nowhere, Texas Green Party nominee Emily Sanchez is the best pick. Ms. Sanchez is the U.S. Senate candidate talking about climate change and fair wages for all.  

Texas Attorney General: Sam Houston

Mr. Houston is a strong competent candidate running against a Republican nominee--Ken Paxton--who may soon face criminal charges.    

Texas Agriculture Commissioner: Kenneth Kendrick

This is another race where the Democrat is not running a credible campaign. Green Party nominee Kendrick is well-informed about Texas agriculture and has a history of taking on big corporate interests.  

Harris County District Attorney: Kim Ogg

This is likely the most important race on the Harris County ballot. Ms. Ogg offers a hopeful and more humane course of justice in Harris County after years of Republican control in this position.

Harris County Judge Executive: David Collins

There is no Democrat in this race. Why not cast a ballot for thoughtful and progressive Green for the highest office in Harris County? 

Harris County Board of Education: Melissa Noriega  

I know Melissa and she is all right. 

Make sure you vote all the way down the ballot on Election Day. The judgeships are important. 

Here is my post from a few days ago of things I intend to do to be of at least some impact in this election.

Taking part in traditional politics does not mean that we should ignore things like the ongoing pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong or the recent climate change march in New York City.  

The work of freedom is up to each of us. We've got to make use of every opportunity and avenue we can to make progress in our nation and the world.  

Here is a list of ideas for everyday resistance to our often greedy and violent society.    

Please read all of NeilAquino.com 

Barbara Gardner is easily the most qualified candidate to serve citizens of Harris County, Texas as Judge of the 234th Civil District Court. 

(Photo to the left is of Ms. Gardner.) 

About Ms. Gardner---  

"With 30 years of experience as a lawyer and being board certified in labor and employment law, Barbara decided to devote her time to helping change the direction of the judicial system.  Currently, Barbara is a partner with Lam, Lyn & Philip, where she specializes in employment cases, representing both individuals and companies. Additionally, she provides consulting services and frequently speaks on legal issues. In the past, Barbara also handled personal injury cases, commercial disputes, and appeals at all levels of court."

Here is Ms. Gardner's judicial philosphy---

"Barbara believes that district judges should have considerable courtroom experience and also the judicial temperament necessary while seeing a case through from beginning to end.  Also, district courts should apply the law fairly and equally.  The courts should have open ears to all who come before it, not just the large corporations.  As one former bank officer said, “Corporations have rights, but they don’t have a right to win.”  Barbara will bring equality to the 234th District Court.  Additionally, neither party affiliation nor contributions should sway a judge’s opinion.  District judges should follow the precedent set by previous opinions." 

Ms. Gardner offers a considered and temperate voice for the ever more ideologically extreme Texas justice system. Please vote for Barbara Gardner for the 234th Civil District Court as a statement of simple fairness and moderation in our Texas and Harris County courts. 

Here is Ms. Gardner's website.    

Please read all of NeilAquino.com

It would be consistent with what should be the spirit of the currently contested anti-discrimination law in Houston for Mayor Annise Parker & human rights leaders in Houston to call for Houston to shelter & assist the unaccompanied refugee children at the border. 

Political leaders and others in Dallas County, Texas reached out to help these children.

Mayor Kassim Read of Atlanta has offered help to these children.

Mayor Rham Emanuel of Chicago has offered to help these children.  

Leadership by Mayor Parker on this issue would also be consistent with Houston's place as a city of immigrants.

Liberals and progressives in Houston will be soon asked to expend effort to defend the Equal Rights Ordinance at the ballot box in an election year where many important races are on the ballot. 

Where is the leadership and concern from the most vocal advocates of this new law--such as Mayor Parker--that would give true substance to the declared intent of the human rights ordinance? 

Please read all of NeilAquino.com