Tuesday, October 1, 2024
As we watch tonight’s crucial debate between Gov. Tim Walz and J.D. Vance, it’s essential to understand what’s at stake. This moment could define our future, not just for Texas but for our nation.
Credit: PBS
While I have faith in Gov. Walz to advocate for our shared values, J.D. Vance will likely push the dangerous agenda of Project 2025. This initiative seeks to dismantle the Department of Education, which would particularly harm schools in low-income areas, where funding is already stretched thin. Research shows that states with weaker public education systems see a decline in student achievement, and over 1 million Texas students could lose access to essential resources if this plan goes through. In fact, a study by the Center for American Progress found that underfunded schools struggle to provide basic educational materials and experienced teachers, putting our children’s future at risk.
Moreover, Project 2025 aims to eliminate abortion travel funding, making it nearly impossible for women in Texas to access necessary healthcare services. This would disproportionately affect low-income women and those in rural areas, further entrenching health disparities. According to the Guttmacher Institute, restrictions on abortion access lead to increased rates of maternal mortality and decreased economic stability for women and families. According to Texas’ Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee’s report released just this week, the rate of maternal death related to childbirth has surged since the fall of Roe, and Black and Hispanic women saw the starkest increase in death related to childbirth. There is nothing “Pro-Life” about laws that kill our mothers or harm their health, especially their future reproductive chances.
The policy also threatens the separation of church and state by allowing taxpayer dollars to support religious organizations, diverting vital funds away from public education and social services. I had a personal conversation with my opponent, Pat Curry, and he said he wanted to abolish the separation between church and state so that his form of Christianity would be taught in our public schools. I could not disagree with him more. A report from the American Civil Liberties Union warns that such measures could jeopardize funding for public schools, worsening inequality and undermining democratic principles.
We must amplify Tim’s message and ensure our campaign remains strong during this pivotal moment.
Join me in fighting back against extremism and standing up for a more equitable Texas.
Erin Shank
Candidate for the Texas House of Representatives, HD 56
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