Meet Kristen Washington | Democratic Candidate for Texas House District 2

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kristen Washington and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kristen, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
Happiness, for me, is deeply rooted in the moments I spend with my family and loved ones. These are the people who provide me with unwavering emotional support and joy, often in ways they might not even realize. The simple, genuine connections we share bring me immense happiness and remind me of the importance of love and togetherness.

Another source of my happiness is seeing tangible results from my efforts. Whether it’s in my personal or professional life, achieving measurable outcomes gives me a sense of accountability and fulfillment. It’s a reflection of my dedication and hard work, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence.

Interestingly, despite my eagerness to graduate high school and step into adulthood, I have found that my joy also lies in continuous learning and growth. Education has always been a passion of mine, and I find great satisfaction in both acquiring new knowledge and sharing it with others. There is a unique happiness that comes from teaching those who may have never been interested before and witnessing them embrace a new perspective on life. This exchange of ideas and the ability to inspire others is truly rewarding and a significant part of what makes me happy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My journey to where I am today as a candidate for Texas House District 2 has been a path of resilience, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to my community. Growing up in Greenville, TX, I noticed a lack of representation in leadership—no one looked like me. When I asked why, I never received a valid answer. Over time, I realized that many in my community didn’t know who their elected leaders were or what they did. This gap in awareness and representation motivated me to step up and be the change I wanted to see.

For years, I debated whether I should run for City Council. I had questions, and so did my community, but we lacked someone who truly represented us. In November 2020, I decided to be that person and was elected to serve District 3 for a three-year term. This role has been transformative, allowing me to build strong relationships within the community and redefine what local leadership should look like.

Was it easy? Absolutely not. As a young African American woman in a predominantly white community, I faced significant challenges. I had to prove that I too deserved a seat at the table—a table where not only were there few women, but also few people of color. Overcoming these challenges requires daily reminders that I have the same 24 hours as everyone else; it’s all about how I use my time. One of my pet peeves is wasting time because it’s something we can never get back.

I have learned several invaluable lessons along the way. Elevation truly requires separation. It requires being comfortable and available in uncomfortable situations. As a single mother in this profession, I’ve had to rely heavily on my family for support. Transparency and being correctable, as my pastor often reminds me, are crucial. Being open to feedback and willing to adjust has been essential in my growth and effectiveness as a leader.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am my ancestors’ prayer. I am the result of their hard work and sacrifices. I am not defined by my past, and I strive to push for change and show the community a new way of living by the words we recite about the pursuit of happiness for all. Regardless of your race, age, or sexuality, God has a plan destined for you, and what He has for you is uniquely yours.

At 17, as a teen mom, I was told I would amount to nothing, just another statistic. Yet, I have accomplished so much more than those predictions. I refuse to die with my potential unfulfilled. The cemetery is the richest place on earth, full of dreams never attempted, ideas never planned, and businesses that never opened. I live every day as if it were my last, determined to make the most of my time and leave a legacy of positive change.

I am proud of the impact I’ve made and excited about the possibilities ahead. My story is one of hope, determination, and the belief that with faith and hard work, anything is possible.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they had an unforgettable experience in Greenville and the surrounding areas. Here’s a little itinerary for a week-long trip that captures the best of what we have to offer:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
– Check-in at a Cozy Country AirBnB: Start with a stay at a charming bed and breakfast in Greenville to give them a taste of the peaceful countryside.
– Evening at Landon Winery: We’d kick off the trip with a visit to Landon Winery in downtown Greenville. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with some amazing wine. They have game nights on Tuesdays and Wine Down Wednesdays where wine is half price. It’s a great place to meet people and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 2: Exploring Greenville
– Morning Walk in Graham Park: A leisurely stroll in Graham Park to enjoy the natural beauty.
– Lunch at Ashen Rose: For fine dining experience at one of the best local restaurants.
Afternoon at More Than A Boutique: Head to downtown Greenville for a charming selection of unique fashion accessories at More Than A Boutique. The welcoming environment is perfect for an afternoon of shopping, and they serve the BEST lattes—yes, even better than Starbucks.
– Dinner at Don Toro Mexican Restaurant: End the day with a delightful meal at this new and upcoming restaurant, which offers a fresh take on Mexican cuisine.

Day 3: Dallas Day Trip
– Morning at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: Enjoy the beautiful gardens and scenic views.
– Lunch at Juicy’s Seafood: For an incredible seafood experience, Juicy’s offers a fantastic menu with fresh and delicious options that are sure to satisfy..
– Afternoon Exploring Deep Ellum: Wander through the vibrant arts and entertainment district, checking out the murals and eclectic shops.
– Evening at Sandaga 813: For a lively night out with great music in the Fair Park area.

Day 4: Rockwall Adventure
– Morning at The Harbor in Rockwall: Start with a leisurely breakfast overlooking Lake Ray Hubbard.
– Lunch at Gloria’s Latin Cuisine: Enjoy some delicious Latin food with a view.
– Afternoon Boat Ride/Cruise: Take a relaxing boat ride or cruise on the lake.
– Dinner and Live Music: Depending on the day, enjoy live music and more great food at The Harbor.

Day 5: Wine and Dine in Greenville
– Visit to Live Happy Lane Winery: Spend the day at this up-and-coming winery, enjoying their various activities and beautiful setting. It has a charming, Hamptons-like vibe.
– Dinner at Molina’s Mexican Restaurant: My favorite place to eat, not just because of the food but because the staff and owner are like family. They truly love their customers, making it a warm and welcoming experience every time

Day 6: Nature and Relaxation
– Relax at the Lake or The Sports Park in Greenville: Sometimes I love to just relax at The Sports Park in Greenville. I take a blanket and lay on the back of my truck, reflect, and talk to God. It’s a perfect way to unwind and connect with nature.

Day 7:
– Morning at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church: We would start the morning at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church for worship service. This is also the time that I am able to truly be me. I don’t have to be Kristen Washington the democratic candidate or Kristen Washington the politician. I am Minister Kristen Washington, I’m Slick (my nickname since birth) the goofy, funny, caring jokester, but at the same time, I don’t mind stopping and speaking truth and light into those around me. At church, I am able to be the little girl who has no worries or cares. That’s why I absolutely love being with my family and my church family. They keep me humble.
Final Stop at The Daiquiri Den in Grand Prairie: To seal the day and end the trip on a fun note, we’d stop by The Daiquiri Den. I haven’t been there yet, but their videos on TikTok look amazing, and I love exploring TikTok finds. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a delicious daiquiri and relax before heading back to “adulting.”

Most Fun, Interesting, and Exciting People, Places, or Things to Check Out:
– The Free Man Cafe in Deep Ellum: Great food and live music.
– Sandaga 813 in Dallas: For a vibrant nightlife experience.
– The Harbor in Rockwall: A perfect spot for dining, music, and lake activities.
– Landon Winery and Live Happy Lane Winery in Greenville: Both offer fantastic wine and a variety of activities that capture the essence of our community.
– The Daiquiri Den in Grand Prairie: A fun spot to enjoy delicious daiquiris and unwind.
– The Cake Bar in Dallas: Indulge in a delightful selection of cakes and treats at this charming bakery in Dallas.

I love showing off the unique blend of city excitement and country tranquility that our area offers. Whether it’s savoring local wines, exploring historical sites, or enjoying the great outdoors, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I want to give all glory and thanks to God. My faith has been the cornerstone of my journey, guiding me through every challenge and triumph. Secondly, I owe immense gratitude to my family, who have instilled in me the values of perseverance and resilience. They taught me to live my best life daily and to never let a “no” deter me from achieving greatness. My grandparents and great-grandparents also played a pivotal role, teaching us early on that life wouldn’t always be fair and to learn from their mistakes. Their wisdom has been a guiding light, and I strive every day to honor their legacy.

Growing up in Greenville, TX, in the late 90s and early 2000s, I was your typical small-town girl who loved track & field, soccer, and volleyball. As the middle child of three, I discovered an early passion for poetry, which became a mental escape and a way to explore what could be.

Today, I serve as a minister at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church in Greenville, TX, the very church where I was born and raised. As a political candidate for State Representative, I want to dedicate this shoutout to my former track coach, history teacher, and principal at Greenville High School, Coach Heath Jarvis.

In high school, whenever I saw a problem, I wasn’t afraid to speak up. I often heard, “You should be a lawyer as much as you like to argue,” and it always made me smile. In history class, we delved into black history and civil rights, and I never hesitated to ask the tough questions. Coach Jarvis encouraged me to dig deeper, to understand that there was more to life than what we were taught in the classroom.

On the track field, Coach Jarvis pushed me to stand up for what is right and to always speak my truth. He taught me that there are times to be vocal and times to listen—a lesson often reinforced by extra laps when I tried to get the last word. Just like my family, he showed me the importance of advocacy and the impact one person can have on behalf of others. Coach Jarvis taught all his track girls that we should never let anyone stereotype us based on the color of our skin. Instead, we should prove them wrong and make them eat their words by being our best and never giving up.

His lessons and encouragement have been instrumental in my journey to become the first Democratic woman and the first African American woman to run for State Representative from Hunt County, Greenville, TX. My goal is to leave an impactful imprint on the lives of those who, like me as a child, seek inspiration and guidance. Thank you, Coach Jarvis, for believing in me and for teaching me to believe in myself.

Website: https://www.KristenWashington.com

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Twitter: @Kwashington4HD2

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