On January 14th, 2025, Rep. Lauren Simmons was officially sworn in for her first term in the Texas House of Representatives. She represents House District 146 (HD146.) The district elects one representative to the Texas Legislature to advocate for the district at the state level. HD146 covers historic and underrepresented neighborhoods like Third Ward and Sunnyside. In her position, Simmons will address issues such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development. She initially ran for the position to “reclaim our seat at the table in state government” she is on a dedicated mission to fight against Gov. Greg Abbott and other Republicans who are trying to harm underprivileged Texans with various laws and policies.
Simmons was born and raised in Houston’s 3rd Ward community and currently lives in HD146. At 19, Simmons became a teenage mom, and her life quickly changed, she was turned down for government assistance and was evicted from her apartment. Leaving her with no choice, she stole food and clothes for her baby although she was caught a judge dismissed her charges. According to Simmons, that experience has fueled her to continue to fight for “those who are tired, frustrated, and who feel unheard by the people who are supposed to be serving them.”
Early in 2024, Simmons won the seat over former state Rep. Shawn Thierry who had been in office for several years. Thierry and Simmons were forced into a primary runoff and Simmons received almost 65% of the vote. Thierry lost most of the votes because she is a Democrat who voted with Republicans on anti-LGBTQ+ bills. Thierry publicly supported Senate Bill 14, which would ban gender-transitioning healthcare in the state of Texas. She also voted to ban certain books in schools that supported LBGTQ+ and a bill that would stop college athletes from competing on sports teams that differ from their gender at birth.
Simmons became well known after calling out Houston ISD Superintendent (HISD) Mike Miles at a community member meeting in 2023. Upset about the state taking over HISD, Simmons said, “This is an attack on our city, because Houston is a big blue dot in a very red state. We’re being punished.” That video went viral on many social media platforms. Simmons also said that video “pushed her into the spotlight.” After unseating former Rep. Shawn Thierry, Simmons spoke with Houston Public Media and she said, “I’m not a politician. It’s not something I ever really envisioned myself doing, but once I wrapped my head around what was at stake, I decided to go for it.”
Lauren Summons’ dedication to Texas House District 146 is a powerful example of how leadership can emerge from lived experience and a deep love for her community. Her passion and commitment to improving underserved communities is a testament to her character. Change truly happens when there are representatives who truly understand and care about those who they serve. Her life is an example, that you do not always have to stay in the same position you were once in. Congratulations to Rep. Simmons for bringing hope and action to her district, her work and impact is something to look forward to.
[Photo: Instagram]
