Austin Hein

These last 10 years have revealed just how many American Christians read the Bible, go to church, recite creeds, sing worship songs, and pray regularly all while completely turning their backs on the Way of Jesus. Calling yourself a Christian doesn’t make you Christlike. As Jesus said, “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” - Matthew 15:9

I am a husband, father, and lifelong Texan. I’ve been a Christian since I was 5 and a pastor since I was 19. And I just proudly voted for James Talarico, Gina Hinojosa, Jon Rosenthal, and Vikki Goodwin. While it’s true that Ken Paxton is as corrupt and morally bankrupt as they come, Greg Abbott has decimated our public schools, Dan Patrick is bought and paid for by right-wing billionaires, and Bo French wears his racism on his sleeve, I didn’t just vote AGAINST candidates I know will do a bad job. I had the privilege of voting FOR candidates who will do a great job! I originally connected with Jimmy Talarico many years ago (long before he got famous) and we became friends shortly after. He’s the exact same guy in private as he is in public—kindhearted, whip smart, hardworking, and very serious about following Jesus’ call to care for all people, especially the most vulnerable. That’s who he’s been in ministry, in the Texas Legislature, and I have no doubt that’s who he’ll be as a United States Senator too. I’ve also gotten to speak with Gina Hinojosa, Jon Rosenthal, and Vikki Goodwin this year. I believe they will fight for two things that are very important to my family and so many people in our church community: 1. An economy where every Texan can afford to have their basic needs met. 2. Fully funded public schools where all children can thrive. I’m not telling you who to vote for; I’m just telling you who I chose to vote for and why. We are in a critical moment in both the United States and Texas, so I hope you vote. And if you are a follower of Jesus, I hope you see your vote as a way to prioritize the way of Jesus—sacrificial love of neighbor and justice for those who have been marginalized.