Call to action and campaign strategy history

From the Desk of Ray / RC Jones

President, Northside Political Group

ACTION

I find myself curious and concerned as to why the Harris County Democratic Party seems to be disengaged from this critical, history-making election. Despite making twenty-two calls to both the chairperson and the chief of staff, I have yet to receive a response. This lack of engagement troubles me, as it does many other community leaders.

Leaders such as Maxine Seal, a deeply knowledgeable and long-standing figure in our political landscape, share my concern. Maxine has been involved in politics for as long as I have, and we both understand our community, which is largely made up of senior citizens. We have been told the party expects these seniors to participate in phone banking from their homes, but we know our people. Many of them are not engaging in these efforts, and we also know from experience that such approaches do not yield results. We saw this during Beto O'Rourke’s campaigns for Senate and Governor efforts like this were ineffective.

Reflecting on my 48 years in the political arena, I recall a time when the dynamics of politics were between Black and White Americans, with Hispanics at that time often considered part of the White electorate. Black and White leaders would meet, and strategize, and then we, as Black leaders, would gather again burning the midnight oil to develop an actionable plan. It is worth noting that during those times, the LGBTQ+ vote was not even considered. Yet, look at the power and organization they have achieved today; now, their vote is one of the most sought-after.

Here is a word of advice for any candidate: always ensure your resources are being spent where they will count, and where you can see tangible results. Unfortunately, Harris County has many political consultants with just 4-5 years of experience. That is not nearly enough time to understand the intricate workings of a successful campaign. My own experience comes from learning from seasoned leaders, many of whom did not have fancy law degrees from Harvard or other prestigious institutions. Some of them, like Mrs. Beulah Shepard, Doris Hubbard, Mrs. Ernest McGowen, Howard Milton, Allen Parker, Mrs. Emma Horn, Mrs. Maxine Seal, and Mr. Sharp, some did not even have more than an eighth-grade education. Yet, their knowledge and wisdom in political strategy were invaluable.

Young people, listen closely: you cannot become an effective political leader simply by being young and smart. You must cultivate both knowledge and wisdom over time. In my next article, I will discuss what it takes to truly become a good politician, because your time is coming, and it is crucial that you are prepared.

Ray / R C Jones