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Hava Johnston
Hava Johnston (Democratic Party) ran for election to the Texas House of Representatives to represent District 106. She lost in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Johnston completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Hava Johnston was born in Las Vegas, New Mexico. She graduated from Plano Senior High School and earned an associate degree from Collin College in 1994. Her career experience includes working as a realtor.[1]
Johnston has been affiliated with the following organizations:[1]
- National Association of Realtors
- Texas Association of Realtors
- Texas Democratic Party
- Denton County Democrats
- Frisco Democrats
Elections
2024
See also: Texas House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
General election for Texas House of Representatives District 106
Incumbent Jared Patterson defeated Hava Johnston in the general election for Texas House of Representatives District 106 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Jared Patterson (R) | 60.6 | 61,381 |
 | Hava Johnston (D)  | 39.4 | 39,941 | |
| Total votes: 101,322 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for Texas House of Representatives District 106
Hava Johnston advanced from the Democratic primary for Texas House of Representatives District 106 on March 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Hava Johnston | 100.0 | 5,086 |
| Total votes: 5,086 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Republican primary election
Republican primary for Texas House of Representatives District 106
Incumbent Jared Patterson advanced from the Republican primary for Texas House of Representatives District 106 on March 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Jared Patterson | 100.0 | 14,741 |
| Total votes: 14,741 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Campaign finance
Endorsements
Johnston received the following endorsements.
Pledges
Johnston signed the following pledges.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Hava Johnston completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Johnston's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I'm not just running for office; I'm running for a vision of Texas that we can all believe in—a Texas for all Texans. Texas is our Lone Star State, and it's a place of incredible diversity, spirit, and potential. I'm dedicated to harnessing that potential to create a Texas that reflects the values and aspirations of all its residents. My commitment to unity, progress, inclusivity, education, and a robust economy is unwavering. I envision a Texas where everyone has access to quality education and healthcare, where opportunities flourish for individuals and businesses, and where the Lone Star spirit shines even brighter. By supporting my candidacy, you're supporting a Texas that's welcoming, prosperous, and compassionate—a Texas for all Texans. Join me on this journey to shape a better future for our beloved state, where the lone star shines for each and every Texan. Together, we can make a difference.
- I am thrilled to bring my diverse background and deep commitment to Texas House District 106 . With a lifelong connection to Texas, I am not only a fourth-generation Texan but also a proud graduate of Plano Senior High School, where my journey began in 1991. While pursuing my studies in Small Business Administration and Management at Collin College, I actively contributed to my family’s business, gaining practical insights into entrepreneurial dynamics. My dedication to public service is reflected in my roles as the precinct chair for the Denton County Democratic Party and as the president of the Frisco Democratic Club. Under my leadership, the Frisco Democrats Club organized the largest Democratic candidate rally in North Texas during the
- I have been recognized as a vocal advocate for women’s rights, a steadfast ally to the LGBTQIA+ community, and a champion of justice and equality. Publications such as The Washington Post, The Dallas Observer, and Texas Tribune have featured my efforts, amplifying my commitment to these vital causes.In addition to my community engagement, I have served on various boards and associations, emphasizing my dedication to collaborative initiatives. My campaign is anchored in key issues such as protecting public education, preserving the environment, and fortifying the local economy.
- I am thrilled to bring my diverse background and deep commitment to Texas House District 106 . With a lifelong connection to Texas, I am not only a fourth-generation Texan but also a proud graduate of Plano Senior High School, where my journey began in 1991. While pursuing my studies in Small Business Administration and Management at Collin College, I actively contributed to my family’s business, gaining practical insights into entrepreneurial dynamics.
Public education and teacher retention are crucial for a flourishing society. In a democracy, ensuring quality education involves valuing and retaining skilled educators. Adequate compensation, professional development, and supportive work environments are vital for teacher retention, promoting stability in schools and enhancing the learning experience for students.Introducing vouchers, however, is a problematic idea. Vouchers can divert funding from public schools, exacerbating resource disparities and impacting teacher retention. It’s essential to prioritize policies that strengthen public education and support teachers for the benefit of our shared future.
Integrity: Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrating honesty, transparency, and a commitment to ethical conduct in all actions and decisions.
Accountability: Take responsibility for one's actions and decisions, being answerable to constituents and holding oneself accountable for delivering on campaign promises.
Empathy: Understand and connect with the diverse needs and perspectives of constituents, demonstrating genuine concern for their well-being and actively seeking to address their concerns.
Communication Skills: Possess effective communication skills, including active listening, clear articulation of ideas, and the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences.
Leadership: Provide strong and ethical leadership, inspiring confidence, fostering collaboration, and guiding the community toward positive change.
Commitment to Public Service: Demonstrate a genuine dedication to serving the public interest, prioritizing the welfare of constituents over personal or political gain.
Open-Mindedness: Approach issues with an open mind, being receptive to diverse perspectives and considering various viewpoints before making informed decisions.
Adaptability: Navigate changing circumstances and evolving challenges with adaptability, adjusting strategies to effectively address emerging issues and opportunities.
Courage: Exhibit courage in advocating for just and principled policies, even when facing opposition or challenging decisions, to ensure the best interests of constituents are served.
Resilience: Demonstrate resilience in the face of setbacks or challenges, learning from experiences and persistently working toward the betterment of the community.
Effective Communication: I excel in articulating ideas, actively listening to constituents, and fostering collaboration with colleagues.
Empathy: My ability to understand and connect with diverse perspectives enables me to make informed and compassionate decisions that address constituents' needs.
Adaptability: I navigate complex and evolving situations adeptly, adjusting strategies to effectively address emerging challenges and opportunities.
Resilience: I approach challenges with resilience, viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement in my public service role.
Collaborative Leadership: I believe in the power of collaborative leadership, recognizing that diverse perspectives and teamwork lead to the best solutions.
Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and maintaining transparency are foundational values that guide my actions as a public servant.
Innovative Thinking: I bring creative and innovative thinking to problem-solving, crucial for finding effective and forward-looking solutions to community issues.
Commitment to Public Service: My unwavering commitment to serving the public interest ensures I prioritize the well-being and concerns of the constituents I represent.
Political Savvy: I understand the political landscape and navigate governmental processes effectively, contributing to the achievement of legislative goals.
Passion for Advocacy: I have a profound passion for advocacy, particularly in areas that promote justice, equity, and the overall well-being of the community.
The core responsibilities for someone elected to this office revolve around effective representation, policymaking, and serving the best interests of the constituents. Key duties include:
Constituent Representation: Prioritize the needs and concerns of constituents, actively listening to their voices, and advocating for policies that align with their interests.
Legislation: Engage in the development, review, and voting on legislation to address critical issues facing the community, ensuring laws reflect the values and needs of the constituency.
Communication: Maintain transparent and open communication with constituents, providing regular updates on legislative activities, seeking feedback, and fostering a sense of civic engagement.
Problem-Solving: Address the challenges and concerns of the community by actively seeking solutions, collaborating with colleagues, and leveraging resources to implement effective policies.
Budget Oversight: Contribute to the formulation and oversight of the budget, ensuring responsible financial management that aligns with community priorities and needs.
Constituent Services: Provide assistance and support to constituents navigating government services, addressing concerns, and facilitating resolutions to problems they may encounter.
Community Engagement: Actively engage with the community through town halls, meetings, and events to stay informed about local issues, build relationships, and maintain a strong connection with constituents.
Policy Advocacy: Advocate for policies that promote justice, equality, and the overall well-being of the community, addressing systemic challenges and championing positive change.
Collaboration: Work collaboratively with fellow legislators, government agencies, and community stakeholders to build consensus, enact effective policies, and address challenges collectively.
I'd like to leave behind a Texas we can all believe in—a Texas that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusivity. For women, it means ensuring equal opportunities in all spheres, breaking down barriers, and fostering an environment where every woman can thrive personally and professionally. A Texas for teachers involves recognizing the invaluable role educators play, providing them with the support and resources they need to empower the next generation.
A Texas for black people means addressing systemic inequalities, promoting justice, and creating pathways for economic and social advancement. Similarly, a Texas for brown people necessitates dismantling barriers, celebrating cultural richness, and ensuring equal access to opportunities. A Texas for queer people involves fostering an inclusive and accepting environment, free from discrimination, where everyone can live authentically.
Communication barriers were a constant struggle, impacting both academic and social interactions. Misunderstandings and the need for repeated clarifications were common, leading to occasional feelings of isolation. However, these challenges fueled my determination to advocate for myself and others facing similar obstacles.
Despite the difficulties, my hearing loss has cultivated resilience and empathy. Overcoming communication barriers instilled a deep appreciation for the value of inclusivity and accessibility. It inspired me to become an advocate for those with hearing impairments, working to raise awareness, improve accommodations, and foster understanding within various communities.
Firstly, open communication is paramount. Regular and transparent dialogue between the governor and the state legislature fosters understanding, helps identify common goals, and facilitates the exchange of ideas. This collaboration is crucial in developing comprehensive policies that address the diverse needs of the state's residents.
Mutual respect is another key component. Both the governor and the legislature represent distinct perspectives and constituencies, and acknowledging and respecting these differences is vital. Constructive debates and negotiations should be conducted with a focus on finding common ground rather than perpetuating partisan divides.
A willingness to compromise is integral to this relationship. Recognizing that divergent views exist and being open to adjusting proposals in the interest of the greater good ensures the enactment of legislation that reflects the broad spectrum of public needs and preferences.
Moreover, the governor and state legislature should work together to establish clear legislative priorities. Aligning on key issues and collaborating to address urgent challenges enables efficient governance and enhances the ability to respond to the evolving needs of the state.
Over the next decade, Texas faces critical challenges:
Water Scarcity: Population growth and drought threaten water supply. Priority on conservation, infrastructure, and innovative management is essential.
Infrastructure Needs: Population growth strains transportation, energy, and facilities. Modernizing and expanding infrastructure is crucial.
Education Disparities: Addressing educational disparities, equalizing access, and investing in teacher development are key.
Healthcare Access: Expanding healthcare, improving Medicaid, and addressing disparities are vital for overall well-being.
Energy Transition: Managing the shift to cleaner energy while considering economic impacts is crucial.
Climate Change Impacts: Vulnerability to climate change requires resilient infrastructure and sustainable land-use policies.
Border Security and Immigration: Balancing effective border management with humanitarian considerations is crucial.
Cybersecurity Threats: Strengthening cybersecurity measures and investing in advanced technologies are essential.
Economic Diversification: Reducing dependence on specific industries and attracting diverse businesses is vital for economic resilience.
Social Inequities: Addressing racial and economic disparities through inclusive policies is crucial for societal cohesion.
1. **Democratic Safeguards:** Concentration of emergency powers in any one branch requires oversight to prevent abuse and uphold democratic principles.
2. **Accountability:** Legislative oversight holds the executive accountable, maintaining public trust and ensuring decisions are in the citizens' best interests.
3. **Balancing Powers:** Granting temporary emergency powers subject to legislative review prevents an imbalance, upholding the separation of powers.
4. **Representative Decision-Making:** The legislature represents diverse perspectives, ensuring more inclusive decision-making during emergencies.
5. **Time-Sensitive Legislation:** Legislative involvement need not impede swift responses; mechanisms can expedite reviews during urgent situations.
6. **Public Input:** Oversight allows for public input, ensuring the legitimacy of emergency measures through consideration of citizens' voices.
7. **Preventing Executive Overreach:** Legislative involvement acts as a check against potential executive overreach, setting clear limits on emergency powers.
8. **Adapting to Evolving Situations:** Legislative oversight enables adapting measures to changing circumstances, ensuring responses align with evolving needs.
Compromise is essential for effective policymaking as it reflects the diverse perspectives within a society and ensures that legislation is comprehensive and representative. In a pluralistic society, individuals and groups hold varying values, interests, and priorities. By engaging in compromise, policymakers can synthesize these diverse viewpoints, finding common ground that benefits the broader population.
Moreover, compromise promotes political stability and fosters a sense of unity. In a democratic system, where power is distributed among different branches and levels of government, compromise enables the functioning of institutions by preventing gridlock and facilitating the passage of legislation. It reflects a commitment to collaborative governance and emphasizes the importance of dialogue and negotiation in reaching solutions.
Successful compromise also enhances the legitimacy of policymaking. When various stakeholders are involved in the decision-making process, it increases the likelihood that policies will be perceived as fair and just. This inclusivity contributes to public trust in government institutions and promotes a sense of civic engagement.
Furthermore, compromise allows for adaptability in the face of changing circumstances. Policymaking is a dynamic process, and the ability to adjust proposals based on emerging challenges or new information is crucial. By embracing compromise, policymakers demonstrate a willingness to evolve their positions in response to evolving conditions, leading to more effective and responsive governance.
1. **Gratitude for Dedication:** Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the future, and this bill expresses gratitude by acknowledging their dedication and hard work.
2. **Enhancing Financial Security:** The bill directly addresses the financial security of retired educators. By permitting them to claim both Social Security and TRS benefits, it provides additional support for their retirement years.
3. **Adapting to Diverse Career Paths:** Recognizing that educators often have diverse career experiences, the bill aligns with changing workforce realities. It acknowledges prior work experiences outside teaching that contribute to eligibility for Social Security benefits.
4. **Attracting and Retaining Talent:** The legislation contributes to the recruitment and retention of quality educators by offering additional financial support. It signals a commitment to valuing teachers not only during their active years but also in retirement.
5. **Legislative Support:** The bill demonstrates legislative commitment to education professionals. It goes beyond rhetoric, actively supporting policies that prioritize the well-being of those who dedicate their careers to educating future generations.
6. **Collaborative Approach:** The legislative process involves consultation with education stakeholders, ensuring the bill addresses the unique needs of teachers. This collaborative approach enhances the bill's effectiveness.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign finance summary
Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Texas House of Representatives District 106 |
Personal |
Footnotes
