Tax Hike Meeting Disrupted by Judge Hidalgo
On Thursday, Judge Lina Hidalgo, a Democrat in Texas, caused a stir during a Harris County Commission Court tax hike meeting. She encouraged children present to come forward and inquire about the commissioners’ plans regarding the votes.
The tax cut proposal, supported by Hidalgo, was introduced to fund specific childcare and education training programs that were initially funded through Covid-related fundraising efforts. During the meeting, Commissioner Tom Ramsey was captured on camera expressing skepticism about the county’s ability to finance the program, indicating that he would vote against it in the next meeting.
In response, Hidalgo immediately urged the children to ask each commissioner whether they would vote yes or no. “We’re trying to get the kids to ask each member,” she declared.
Commissioner Adrian Garcia then attempted to restore order, suggesting that the debate was inappropriate due to the lack of a second on the motion.
“I didn’t make a motion; I just read what was presented,” Hidalgo countered. “I didn’t say no—okay, I’ll take it back.”
Hidalgo then turned to Commissioner Leslie Brion, urging her to share her thoughts. As Brion began to speak, Hidalgo shouted for the children to come down, insisting the matter was about them, not politics.
“The kids are coming down! Let’s see if she says yes or no!” Hidalgo exclaimed. “This is about kids!”
As some children stood up from their seats, Brion attempted to redirect the conversation, emphasizing respect in education. Hidalgo, however, reminded her of the courtroom dynamics, which led to more interruptions and tensions escalating.
“Sorry, Judge, please give me your respect,” Brion pleaded. “Education tells the truth! Don’t set this example for the kids.” She held up signs related to the proposals, indicating her opposition.
Brion tried to expand on her concerns regarding the “half-baked” proposal, but Hidalgo covered her face with signs, further complicating the discussion.
“We have to wait 20 years to see if these kids graduate,” Hidalgo interrupted, reacting to Brion’s comments.
Ramsey stepped in, requesting courtesy from Hidalgo, but she persisted in her interruptions. Despite attempts from several commissioners to regain control, Hidalgo continued her disruption.
After Brion’s final point, amidst the chaos, Hidalgo seemed to make a motion, but it wasn’t clear what it was.
“I’m deeply disappointed,” she later stated, representing thousands of families who might see essential childcare and educational access jeopardized due to political maneuvers.
“This program has been thoroughly evaluated,” Hidalgo added. “We’ve been discussing bond elections since 2019, and unlike Travis County, we ran the program before bringing it to voters.”
Seeking a break to regroup, Hidalgo called for a 10-minute recess. During this time, she spoke with reporters, expressing her disappointment over the committee’s resolution, emphasizing that Harris County is facing a significant budget deficit.
