Tracy Andrus

Tracy Andrus was born in Lafayette, Louisiana. He graduated from Crowley High School. He earned an associate degree from Louisiana College in 1999, a bachelor's degree from Louisiana College in 2000, a graduate degree from the University of Louisiana, Monroe in 2001, and a Ph.D. from Prairie View A&M University in 2005. His career experience includes working as a professor, pastor, and nonprofit executive director. Andrus has been affiliated with Alpha Phi Alpha, the Free and Accepted Masons, ACJS, ASC, the NAACP, and the ACLU.[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am Dr. Tracy Andrus. I am a community activist, democrat, pastor, and professor. I am running to make a difference. I will support social security, higher wages for teachers, reducing inflation, and reducing taxes.

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?

I will not privatize social securityI will increase pay for teachers.I will support early childhood education and daycare centers.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Criminal Justice reform

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Marcus Garvey

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

Men of honor movie.

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

Integrity, and honesty are the most important characteristics for elected officials.

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

Integrity, transparency, no quit

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

To defend and uphold the Constitution.

What legacy would you like to leave?

A good one

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

Assassination of Dr King in 1967

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

McDonald’s- two years

What is your favorite book? Why?

From prisoner to phd. I wrote it

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

The hulk

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Me against the world

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Looking as injustice

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

Their ability to approve or veto bills.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

No

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

Creating diversity, equity and inclusion, immigration, inflation and world peace!

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

Yes

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I support term limits.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

No

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Yes. A story from Tracy Andrus

Tell us your favorite joke.

Humpty Dumpty

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

A major role.

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

They should use it as designed

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Democrats, naacp, hbcu professors, some republicans and teachers

What committees interest you?

Criminal justice, finance and education.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I support full transparency

Campaign websiteAndrus' campaign website stated the following:Where do you stand on Tariffs?I believe tariffs can hurt the economy by increasing costs for consumers and businesses, disrupting supply chains, and straining international trade relationships. In the long run, they risk slowing growth and pushing the country toward a recession rather than strengthening our economic position.Where do you stand on Social Security?I believe Social Security is a promise earned through a lifetime of work, and the government should not interfere or attempt to cut benefits. People paid into the system and deserve to receive what they were promised.What is your stance on immigration?I believe America is a nation built by immigrants, and we must honor that legacy with compassion and fairness. Immigrants contribute to our economy, culture, and communities in meaningful ways. While I support strong and secure borders, I also believe every person deserves due process and humane treatment. Our immigration system should reflect our values—upholding the law while treating individuals and families with dignity. We need comprehensive reform that balances security with opportunity and fairness.What is your stance on DEI?I believe that Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are essential for creating a fair and equitable society, especially considering the historical challenges faced by Black communities. DEI initiatives aim to address systemic inequalities and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities to succeed. Research indicates that organizations embracing DEI not only foster a more inclusive environment but also experience benefits like increased innovation and employee satisfaction .While some companies have recently reduced their DEI efforts due to external pressures, the core principles of DEI remain vital for promoting social justice and organizational success .The Washington PostFor those interested in further exploring DEI, resources like the book "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for Trainers: Fostering DEI in the Workplace" offer valuable insights into implementing effective DEI strategies .How do you feel about DOGE? Department of Government Efficiency?I believe that while DOGE may help identify areas of government waste, it should not be used as a tool to unlawfully target or lay off hardworking employees without cause. Firing individuals without due process undermines fairness, morale, and the principles of good governance. Any efforts to improve efficiency must respect workers’ rights and follow lawful procedures. Misusing DOGE to justify unjust terminations is unacceptable and should be stopped immediately.What do you want constituents to know about you?Tracy Andrus, a seasoned educator and community advocate from Marshall, Texas, is running for Congress in Texas’s 1st District in 2026. With a Ph.D. from Prairie View A&M University, Andrus brings a wealth of experience in public service and education. His campaign focuses on comprehensive criminal justice reform, aiming to expand pardoning powers to district judges and reduce unnecessary regulations. Andrus is also a proponent of immigration reform, advocating for legal status and tax contributions for immigrants, recognizing their vital role in the economy. A strong supporter of reproductive rights, he seeks to codify Roe v. Wade into federal law while promoting personal responsibility. Additionally, Andrus emphasizes the importance of alternative green energy sources to combat climate change. Andrus's commitment to term limits is evident through his pledge to support congressional term limits, aligning with his belief in citizen-led governance. U.S. Term LimitsEndorsed by various churches and civic organizations, Tracy Andrus offers a platform centered on justice, equity, and community empowerment.— Tracy Andrus' campaign website (February 12, 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.

I am Tracy Andrus, son of Ms. Alice and Warren Andrus of Crowley, Louisiana. I am the youngest of 10 boys and two girls. I am the Director of Criminal Justice at Wiley College and Pastor of Edwards Chapel B.C. Marshall, Texas. I am also a business owner and Executive Director of Tracy Andrus Foundation. I spent three years in prison on a 57-year sentence for check kiting and theft of service. I was released from prison in 1994. I entered college in 1995 and received degrees from Louisiana College in Pineville, Louisiana, University of Louisiana Monroe (Masters) and in 2005, I became the first African American in the United Stated to earn a PhD in Juvenile Justice from Prairie View A&M University.

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?

I will support legislation that extends pardoning powers to district judges. Governors should not have exclusive pardoning powers in their state.I will support legislation that allows women to choose what happens to their bodies. No government, lawyer, politician or anyone else should choose for women when it comes to their bodies.I will support legislation that provides more jobs to help ramp up production to meet the demands of our robust economy which will in turn reduce inflation. Inflation is too high!

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Criminal Justice Reform, Finance, Enviromental Justice, Immigration, Green Energy, Women Reproductive Rights

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

My mother! She never complained about life, but always strived to make life better for her family.

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

From Prisoner to PhD; My Eleven Yer Journey - Publication

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

Honesty and Integrity.

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

Smart worker, ability to work with all people, positive attitude

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

To represent their constituents who elect you to office

What legacy would you like to leave?

I would like to leave a legacy that says, I made a difference and left the world better than I found it!

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

Assassination of Dr. MLK - 5 yrs. old

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

McDonalds - 3 years

What is your favorite book? Why?

From Prisoner to PhD, My Eleven Year Journey. It tells the story of my triumph and resilience.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

The Hulk

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Ain't no stopping us now! McFadden and White Head!

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Trying to outlive the felony that I committed 35 years ago.

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

Immigration, Social Justice, Inflation and Climate Change

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I believe that there should be term limits for every political office, and no one should serve over two consecutive terms.

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

IT represents the highest level of government in the U. S. other than the Supreme Court.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for senators to have previous experience in government or politics?

No

What do you think of the filibuster?

It's a tactic that is beyond ignorance!

Is there a particular senator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Carol Moseley Braun

Tell us your favorite joke.

How would you evaluate a judicial nominee?

Look at his views regarding the law. Thoroughly examine their thoughts.

What kind of relationships would you build with other senators?

A working relationship with as many of them as possible.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

yes

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

In a legal, authorized nondiscriminatory way.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Edwards Chapel Baptist Church

The Kingdom Center

Numerous Organizations and Pastors

Individual Business Owners

Students from various colleges and universities

What criteria would you apply when deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet?

I will consider their charter, qualifications, and policy views.

What committees interest you?

Criminal Justice, Enviromental Justice, Finance, Legislative

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe in financial transparency and government accountability. If you are not stealing or doing anything underhanded, you should not have nothing to hide.

Note: Andrus submitted the above survey responses to [the profile publisher] on May 23, 2024.

Show past responsesHide past responses

April 18 submission

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Tracy Andrus. A vote for me is a vote for change!

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?

I will support federal legislation that will expand pardoning powers to District Judges.I will ensure that no one will be able to smuggle guns into school to kill our children attending school by supporting legislation that establish a three-tier perimeter system in every school in Texas.I will support federal legislation that de-regulate certain requirements regarding plumbing, and building codes. We have become too heavily regulated which has resulted in the closing of many small businesses.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Criminal Justice

Housing

Education

Climate Change

Regulations

Social Services

Banning Assault Weapons

Immigration Reform

Small Business Loans

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

Martin Luther King and Malcolm X. Because both of them told the truth regardless of the repercussions that they faced.

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

Book - From Prisoner to PhD by Tracy Andrus

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

Integrity and honesty

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

Honesty and straightforwardness

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

Speak on behalf od the people who elect you to office

What legacy would you like to leave?

A legacy of being effective

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

School Intergration - 1970

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

McDonalds - Three years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

From Prisoner to PhD by Tracy Andrus - Because it is very inspirational

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Black Panther - T'Challa

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Tupac - Dear Momma

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Having to look at injustice and not being able to do anything about it!

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

Domestic Racism and Bigotry

What are your thoughts on term limits?

I support term limits.

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

This office is a congressional office and as such speaks on behalf of the constituents that we represent.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for senators to have previous experience in government or politics?

No

What do you think of the filibuster?

It is mainly a waste of money and time.

Is there a particular senator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

Barack Obama

Tell us your favorite joke.

How would you evaluate a judicial nominee?

On his or her merits

What kind of relationships would you build with other senators?

Good relationships

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

necessary

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

To investigate matters deemed appropriate.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Edwards Chapel Baptist Church

Students for Tracy Andrus Baylor University

PVAMU Students for Tracy Andrus

UTEP Students for Tracy Andrus

Texas A&M University Students for Tracy Andrus

Wiley College Students for Tracy Andrus

Texas Ministerial Alliance

What criteria would you apply when deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet?

Fairness.