Murray Holcomb

Murray Holcomb (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Texas' 31st Congressional District. He did not appear on the ballot for the Democratic primary on March 3, 2020.

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What would be your top three priorities, if elected?

Meaningful Healthcare Reform

Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Redefining International Responsibilities

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Healthcare! As a Medical Doctor and Surgeon, I have seen first hand the inadequacies of our healthcare system, and the real human suffering that it causes for us, our friends and loved ones. We need real reform that will tackle the bloated for-profit machine that is the healthcare system, and Congress needs experts from the field qualified to make those changes. There are many ways to cut operating costs, expand access, and to maintain patient/doctor control.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

My political philosophy has been influenced by countless personal and professional experiences, by so many people and so many perspectives. You can find an outline of my political thoughts on my blog, where I try to remain vulnerable, open and honest. http://murray-citizen.blogspot.com/

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, humility, presence of a moral and ethical compass to guide policy decisions.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

If elected, I pledge to not be a career politician, to not worry and fret about re-election campaigns or my own personal enrichment. I pledge to vote how my conscience demands, to stand up and speak out to oppression and corruption in their many forms. I pledge to be an empathetic ear, to listen to the real, meaningful challenges each of you face every day. Most of all, I pledge to be humble; to admit to what I do not know, to ask questions, and to remain steadfast in my commitment to the truth.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To not decide for their constituents what they think, but to instead lend an empathetic ear to them and their daily realities. To listen, to offer support, and to vote for what the district wants, not what they want.

What legacy would you like to leave?

An imprint on the communities of our district and a brighter future for our current neighbors and for the generations yet to arrive.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The JFK assassination happened on my third birthday, and I grew up hearing about it every single year.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I grew up working on my family's farm. There was always work to do, but it was every family member's responsibility to contribute. Outside of the farm, I delivered handbills for our town's grocery store from the ages of 8-13 (child labor laws were different then)!

What is your favorite holiday? Why?

Thanksgiving, bringing the family together, and being appreciative of what we have always warms my heart.

What process do you favor for redistricting?

Non-biased, bipartisan, with at-large civilian/NGO oversight.

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

It is a fiery, deliberative institution that serves as a focal point for our national dialogues. I wish to contribute to that conversation.

What do you perceive to be the United States' greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Re-negotiating our position on the global stage, and ensuring the stability of our Democracy through efforts in cybersecurity.

If you are not a current representative, are there certain committees that you would want to be a part of?

Energy and Commerce, Financial Services, Natural Resources.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

I'm not sure. Two year terms make it to where the election cycle is near continuous, and there is something to be said about legislative agendas that take considerable amounts of time and a delicate touch to enact.

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I think they are appropriate. Elected public office should not be one's primary career, it would reinforce the perception of elected officials as "public servants", and help them to vote in line with their conscience. The ideal number of terms is still up for debate.

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