Stuart Whitlow

Stuart Whitlow's professional experience includes working as a lawyer. He earned a bachelor's degree from Southwestern University, a graduate degree from Vanderbilt University, a J.D. from the University of Texas, Austin, and an M.P.A. from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas, Austin.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Stuart Whitlow, and I am running for Congress because Central Texans deserves a Representative that's ready to fight for us in Washington. I’ve earned a BA from Southwestern, a Masters of Divinity from Vanderbilt, and joint degrees from UT’s LBJ School and UT Law, graduating with Honors. I’ve spent 35 years as a trial attorney fighting against big corporations for my clients and worked with the Texas Legal Services Center to provide free legal help to over 7,000 Texans in need of legal services. I also co-founded the award-winning job training program “Capital Idea” in Austin in 1998 and played a key role in expanding it into Williamson and Bell Counties.

As a fifth-generation Central Texan and a lifelong Democrat, I will fight to bringing federal resources home to strengthen schools and infrastructure, support veterans and military families, protect Social Security and Medicare, and lower the cost of living. I believe that public service is a calling, and I want to help build a future where leadership means lifting people up, telling the truth, and making government work for the people it serves.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Texans work hard, but the cost of everything keeps climbing — groceries, healthcare, housing, and childcare. I will fight for tax relief for middle-class families by reversing the Trump Administration's tax breaks for the wealthy and moving the burden from the middle class to the top 1%. I'll protect Social Security and Medicare for seniors and fight to extend Obamacare subsidies. And I will fight to curtail the executive branch's power to recklessly implement tariffs as well as cracking down on price gouging that’s squeezing working families' paychecks. I believe the federal government should strengthen small businesses, invest in workforce training, and reward hard work — not just wealth.Voting rights are at the forefront of the fight to save our Democracy. Having spent my career as a plaintiff's' attorney, I'm ready to take my experience as a fighter from the courtroom to Capitol Hill and fight to stop the assault on our Democracy. I believe in expanding mail-in voting, removing barriers to voter registration, and I will do everything necessary to expand voting access, stop voter intimidation, and end the MAGA assault on American Democracy.Texans shouldn't have to worry about choosing between paying off medical debts or putting food on the table, that's why I will fight to lower prescription drug prices, protect Medicare, and advocate for Medicaid expansion for Texans. I'll fight to expand rural healthcare access, expand Obamacare subsidies, and improve our veterans' healthcare network.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As a father, lifelong Democrat, and Central Texas native, I care deeply about the everyday effect of public policy in our community. I am particularly passionate about restoring women's reproductive rights, protecting and expanding healthcare accessibility, stopping Trump's infringements on our constitutional rights, and lowering the cost of living for working families. I will also focus on supporting active-duty military personnel and our Veterans. These are not just policy areas to me; they are the foundation for a thriving, equitable society. It is essential that we prioritize policies that not only address our immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity and resilience.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Texas AFL-CIO COPE

March On PAC

Austin American-Statesman

The Austin Chronicle

Max Sherman, Fmr. TX State Senator

Terry Cook, Williamson Co. TX Commissioner

Hilda Montgomery, Round Rock, TX City Councilmember

Frank Ortega, Round Rock, TX City Councilmember

Andrew Naudin, Leander, TX City Councilmember

Jesse Myles, Harker Heights, TX City Councilmember

Karishma Talbott, Nolanville, TX City Councilmember

Fred Chavez, Fmr. Copperas Cove, TX City Councilmember

Campaign websiteWhitlow's campaign website stated the following:Addressing The IssuesEconomic Stability & Cost of LivingTexans work hard, but the cost of everything keeps climbing — groceries, healthcare, housing, and child care. Stuart will fight for tax relief for middle-class families, protect Social Security and Medicare, and crack down on price gouging that’s squeezing our paychecks. He believes the federal government should strengthen small businesses, invest in workforce training, and reward work — not just wealth.Service, Veterans, & National SecurityAs the representative for Fort Hood and one of the largest veteran communities in Texas, Stuart knows service is more than a slogan — it’s a duty. He’ll ensure every veteran and military family receives the benefits they’ve earned, from healthcare and housing to job transition programs. Stuart supports a strong national defense built on readiness, accountability, and respect for those who serve.Education, Infrastructure & Smart GrowthOur district is growing fast — and our roads, schools, and infrastructure must keep up. In Congress, Stuart will push for federal investments in safe highways, modern classrooms, broadband expansion, and affordable housing. Smart growth means keeping our communities livable and our economy competitive for the next generation.Healthcare for Every FamilyHealthcare shouldn’t be a luxury. Stuart supports lowering prescription drug prices, expanding rural and veterans’ care access, and protecting Medicare for seniors. He’ll work to make sure every Texan — no matter where they live — can afford quality care.Clean Energy, Jobs & the Texas EconomyTexas should lead the next energy revolution. Stuart supports expanding clean-energy manufacturing and investing in technology that keeps our grid reliable, lowers costs, and creates good-paying jobs right here at home — from Round Rock to Temple.Integrity, Accountability, & ServicePublic service is a promise. Stuart will fight for government transparency, ethics reform, and term-limit discussions that ensure our leaders answer to the people — not to lobbyists or political insiders. He believes in service over self and restoring trust in Congress."In TX-31, we don’t just talk about service — we live it. And it’s time our representation in Congress did, too."- Stuart WhitlowTexas’s 31st Congressional District is one of the fastest-growing regions in the state — stretching from the northern edges of Austin through Round Rock, Georgetown, Temple, and Killeen. It’s home to families who work hard, serve their country, and want the same thing from their leaders: honesty, accountability, and results that make life better right here at home.But as our population grows, so do our challenges. Traffic is worse, housing costs are climbing, and our schools are straining to keep up. Small businesses are battling rising expenses, while too many working families are one unexpected bill away from crisis. In Bell County, veterans still struggle to access timely healthcare; in Williamson County, families see their paychecks stretched thinner every month. And across our rural communities, broadband access, medical care, and infrastructure investment have lagged far behind our needs.At the same time, Central Texans are building something incredible — a region driven by innovation, service, and community pride. From the tech corridors around Round Rock to the soldiers and veterans of Fort Cavazos, our district reflects the best of what Texas stands for: grit, generosity, and a belief that when we look out for one another, everyone rises.Stuart Whitlow is running for Congress to meet these challenges head-on — to make Washington work for Central Texas again. His priorities are simple: lower costs for families, support those who serve, modernize our infrastructure, invest in good-paying jobs, and ensure government works with the same integrity and purpose we expect from one another.Because in TX-31, we don’t just talk about service — we live it. And it’s time our representation in Congress did, too.— Stuart Whitlow's campaign website (February 17, 2026)Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Stuart Whitlow and I am running for Congress to retire John Carter and help restore Democrats to the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives. Democracy is on the ballot in 2024 — to protect the rights of ALL Texans we must elect a leader who will fight for the issues that matter most to our community: reproductive rights, Medicaid, constitutional rights, environmental protections, public education, expanding our economy, ending gun violence, protecting the rights of all Texans, and more.

I’ve earned a BA from Southwestern, a Masters of Divinity from Vanderbilt, and joint degrees from UT’s LBJ School and UT Law, graduating with Honors. I’ve spent 35 years as an attorney and worked with the Texas Legal Services Center to provide legal help to over 7,000 Texans seeking free services. I also played a key role in starting the award-winning job training program “Capital Idea” and in expanding it into Williamson County.

As a lifelong Democrat and Williamson and Bell County native, I will fight to restore our rights, protect our democracy, and deliver real results for CD 31.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Democracy is on the ballot in 2024. When elected, Congresspeople take an oath to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.” But when our current Congressman voted to overturn President Biden’s victory he abandoned his oath in favor of partisan politics that do not serve our country or our community. I’m running for Congress to stand up to John Carter and deliver real results for CD 31 so that Americans born in this century will live in a Democracy where they’ll thrive.From the State House to the U.S. House, our leaders have attacked the fundamental rights we hold dear in this country. As your next Congressman, I will work tirelessly to collaborate with my constituents and colleagues and get back to work on the issues that matter most to our community. I have two sons in college, and I want them to live in a country bound by civility, equality, and justice for ALL people. Instead of wasting precious legislative time, like taking 15 votes to elect a Speaker, Congress should focus on improving the lives of all Americans by addressing kitchen table issues — when I’m elected, I will do just that.As a lifelong Democrat, voters can go to the polls knowing that I share their values and their priorities for our community. And as your congressman, I will fight for those values every single day. Congress must work to restore reproductive rights, advance healthcare, protect public education, defend our democracy, expand our economy, save our environment, end our gun violence pandemic, support equal rights for all Texans, and protect the freedoms guaranteed by our constitution.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

As a father, lifelong Democrat, and Williamson and Bell County native, I care deeply about the everyday effect of public policy in our community. I am particularly passionate about issues such as restoring reproductive rights, protecting our public schools, healthcare accessibility, immigration reform, inflation reduction, equal rights for all Texans, and economic development. I will also focus on supporting active duty military personnel and our Veterans. These are not just policy areas to me; they are the foundation for a thriving, equitable society. It is essential that we prioritize policies that not only address immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for long-term prosperity and resilience.

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

In my view, the characteristics and principles most important for an elected official are integrity, commitment to justice, and a steadfast dedication to serving the public good. These values are the foundation of my campaign and reflect my lifelong commitment to democracy and public service.

Integrity is paramount. An elected official must be honest, transparent, and accountable to the people they represent. Throughout my 35-year career as an attorney and my work with the Texas Legal Services Center, I have upheld these principles, providing legal assistance to over 7,000 Texans seeking free legal services and ensuring they receive the support and justice they deserve.

Commitment to justice involves fighting for the rights and dignity of all individuals. This means standing up against injustices, advocating for equality, and working tirelessly to ensure that our laws and policies reflect the values of fairness and equity. My work in founding the Capital Idea job-training program was driven by this commitment, aiming to provide Texans with the opportunities they need to improve their lives.

Dedication to serving the public good means putting the needs and welfare of our community above all else. As a lifelong Democrat and a native of Williamson and Bell County, I have always prioritized the well-being of my community.

Furthermore, an elected official must possess the ability to listen, empathize, and respond effectively to the needs of their constituents. This involves not only understanding the issues at hand but also being proactive in seeking solutions that address the root causes of our challenges.

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

As a candidate for Congress, I see the core responsibilities of this office as legislating effectively, representing the interests of my constituents, and serving our community's needs with integrity and accountability.

I will work to craft laws that foster justice, equity, and opportunity, focusing on crucial issues like healthcare, education, democracy, immigration, inflation, and economic growth, and environmental protection. My commitment is to policies that benefit all in CD 31.

I will be a true voice for the district, actively engaging with constituents, understanding their concerns, and reflecting their aspirations in every legislative action. My deep roots and extensive community work in Texas have honed my ability to listen and advocate for our community’s needs.

Moreover, protecting democracy is essential — fighting against voter suppression, and upholding constitutional values. My campaign underscores democracy's significance, aiming to ensure fairness and uphold our democratic principles in Congress.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite texts are the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. These foundational documents guide our nation's principles of liberty, justice, and democracy. They not only establish the framework of our government and protect individual freedoms but also inspire my commitment to public service. As a lifelong advocate for justice and a candidate for Congress, these documents are the cornerstone of my professional ethos and personal values. They reinforce my dedication to ensuring fairness, upholding rights, and fostering a society where the rule of law and individual liberties are paramount.

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

The U.S. House of Representatives stands unique due to its direct accountability to the people, necessitated by elections every two years. This setup ensures Representatives remain closely connected with their constituents' immediate needs and concerns. The smaller size of districts allows for a deep understanding of local challenges and opportunities, enabling tailored and effective advocacy. This close connection with the electorate ensures the House is a dynamic, responsive body that accurately reflects and addresses the public's voice. My commitment is to harness this unique aspect to advocate passionately for our district's needs and values.

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

The United States' greatest challenges over the next decade include preserving our democracy, overcoming polarization, and restoring reproductive rights. Democracy is our foundation, and it's crucial to protect it from threats, both foreign and domestic, ensuring the principles of fairness and the rule of law prevail. We must bridge the deep divides that polarize our nation, fostering a dialogue to help heal our country and move forward. Additionally, the fight to restore reproductive rights is paramount, ensuring women have the freedom to make their healthcare decisions. My focus is on defending democratic values, uniting our country, and advocating for the fundamental rights we hold dear.

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

The U.S. House should focus its investigative powers on breaches of Presidential and Congressional oaths, as seen with the Jan 6 committee's effective accountability efforts. Such investigations are vital for upholding democracy, ensuring government integrity, and maintaining public trust. Concentrating on significant violations, and refusing to abuse this investigative power for political gain, helps prevent power abuses and strengthens our democratic institutions. I advocate for transparent and fair use of these powers to protect our foundational principles.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Williamson County Commissioner Terry Cook

Bell County Commissioner Louie Minor

Texas AFL-CIO COPE

Capitol Area Progressive Democrats

Liberal Austin Democrats

Luis Echegaray - 2022 Democratic Nominee, Texas HD 52

Tina Steiner - Teacher, Advocate, Community Leader, 5 th Generation RR Native

Karen Felthauser - Ground Breaking Texas HD52 Candidate, Retired Teacher

Jose Orta, 2022 Democratic Nominee, County Commissioner 4, WilCo Community Activist

Rev. Lou Snead, Retired Presbyterian Minister

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

My views on financial transparency and government accountability are rooted in the belief that integrity and openness are fundamental to a healthy democracy. Financial transparency ensures that constituents can see how their money is being used, fostering trust between the public and their elected officials. Government accountability holds those in office to their promises and responsibilities, ensuring they serve the public's interest above all.

I have spent my career advocating for the rights and services of Texans, working to provide legal assistance to over 7,000 Texans seeking free legal services and founding the Capital Idea job-training program to improve economic opportunities. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to transparency and accountability, showing me how vital they are in building and maintaining public trust.