Damian Galvan hosts special guest Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons (D-TX-146), a former labor organizer turned state legislator fighting for working families in Texas.Damian and Lauren discuss her journey from middle school activist to viral political voice, why authenticity beats political theater, the fight against Republican gerrymandering in Texas, and how Democrats can actually connect with everyday people on issues like wages, healthcare, and community safety.They also break down Greg Abbott’s compliance with Trump’s demands for new GOP seats, what it’s like battling bad-faith politics in the Texas legislature, and why making politics “cool” and welcoming is essential if Democrats want to win young voters.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction00:39 – Growing up in Houston & first activism wins02:18 – Becoming a teen mom and finding labor organizing05:01 – From community organizer to a state legislator08:20 – Viral school board video & decision to run for office11:46 – Why authenticity resonates more than talking points14:10 – Democrats’ branding problem: making politics relatable18:02 – Organizing in Texas & building a bigger tent23:37 – “Cartoon villains” in politics & dystopian parallels30:45 – Trump, fascism, and America’s declining global standing36:00 – Greg Abbott, Trump, and Texas redistricting fight42:55 – Racist gerrymandering & suppression of Black and Latino voters47:20 – Why Texas isn’t red, it’s a non-voting state50:05 – Legal battles, courts, and what comes next52:58 – The future of Democratic organizing in Texas55:45 – Closing thoughtsThank you for tuning into the ‘Who Dem?’ Podcast! We bring on Democratic leaders, candidates, personalities, and more with a goal of truly getting to know the person beyond politics. Hosted by Damian Galvan and Rep. Gil Cisneros (D-CA 31).New episodes weekly! Subscribe now and never miss a conversation.Connect with us on socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whodempod/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@whodempod📩 For business inquiries: [email protected]

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