Relentless Texan Persistently Contacts State Legislators Year After Year; One Capitol Aide Seeks Personal Encounter with Her
In the bustling Texas Capitol, Kimberlee Ralph's phone often rings with people seeking help or sharing opinions. But one caller stands out - Reta Ward, a sprightly 94-year-old woman, going blind and barely able to hear, who insists on calling every legislator in the Texas legislature.
"She's a throwback to an era long gone," Ralph, 35, said fondly. Ward's knowledge, humor, kindness, and unexpected outlook on older, rural Texans left an indelible impression on Ralph. Reminding her of her grandmother and the very reason she entered politics, Ward serves as a heartwarming reminder of reality amid the power and money of the Capitol.
Intrigued by this remarkable woman, Ralph reached out to KUT's ATXplained project for more information. Days later, the call came through, connecting them for a heartfelt conversation.
Ward, residing in Bastrop, confirmed her dedication - calling every one of the 181 state lawmakers each legislative session, not limiting herself to state representatives alone. Congresspeople and city council members regularly receive her calls, too.
Ward's passion for politics dates back to her childhood in the Hill Country. A visit from W. Lee "Pappy" O'Daniel, president of the Burrus Mill and Elevator Company and a gubernatorial candidate, captivated her youthful mind. At the same time, her mother encountered prejudice working at Austin State Hospital, leading a group of women to be subjected to personal and invasive questions by lawmakers. This incident left a lasting impression on Ward, serving as her first encounter with discrimination.
Ward's tireless pursuit of political engagement led her to move around the state, developing a keen interest in water policy in Lubbock. As she returned to Central Texas in the 1990s, she vowed to make her voice heard by calling every lawmaker.
"I'm just one person," she admitted. "But somebody needs to stand up and speak out. It's up to me."
Meeting Ralph at the Capitol, Ward recounted hilarious anecdotes about her encounters with Texas political figures. As they delved into her calls to lawmakers, Ward expressed hope that her efforts could influence decisions, even slightly.
"I sense a difference when I call," she said. "People need to hear from regular folks like me."
Ralph, having answered these calls, affirmed that they do make a difference, even influencing votes at times. For Ward, that's more than enough satisfaction in her pursuit to shape Texas' future through her voice.
Sources:1. Reta Ward's decades-long advocacy sparks hope for Texas politics2. A charming, irrepressible voice in Texas politics
The 94-year-old woman, Reta Ward, not only calls every legislator in the Texas legislature but also reaches out to congresspeople and city council members, showcasing her immense passion for policy-and-legislation and general-news. Her calls, according to Kimberlee Ralph, occasionally influence votes and serve as a beacon of hope amid the power and money of the Capitol, thereby shaping the future of Texas politics.
