Beto O’Rourke lit a spark back into Democratic politics in Texas. His infectious enthusiasm drives action towards important issues and mobilizes grassroots energy in a way that throws winning Texas into the mix.

Although O’Rourke did not defeat Ted Cruz for Senate in 2018, he revolutionized the way grassroots organizing was done in his state and around the country.

While his organizing for every vote in every part of Texas may not have resulted in his own victory, renewed grassroots enthusiasm led to vastly improved widespread voter registration, as well as tangible Democratic gains down the ballot to this day.

“The arc of history bends towards justice, but it won’t get there on its own. We have to bend it ourselves.”

Rep. Beto O’Rourke

On the issues, it is his unbridled passion for gun safety reform that has brought about much-needed national conversations, including putting an end to permitless gun carry laws.

With over 4,000 Texans dying by gun violence every year, Beto’s example of speaking truth to power following the Robb Elementary School shooting continues to inspire hope.