What’s it really like to run for office? In this session, hear directly from former candidates as they share the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned on the campaign trail and as an elected official.
The Honorable Larry Gonzales, Former State Representative (R-Round Rock)
Representative Larry D. Gonzales has dedicated his career to public service, fiscal responsibility, and effective government. Serving in the Texas House of Representatives from 2011 to 2018, Representative Gonzales became known for his leadership on budget transparency and state agency oversight. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Articles VI, VII, and VIII, he helped appropriate funding for 42 state agencies overseeing natural resources, business and economic development, and regulatory programs. He also served as Chairman of the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission, leading efforts to streamline government operations and improve accountability across state agencies. Before his time in the legislature, Representative Gonzales built a career in public administration and communications, working in higher education and the private sector. A proud graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, he earned his B.A. in Government and later received a Master of Public Administration and Certified Public Manager credential from Texas State University. Born and raised in Texas, Representative Gonzales has long believed in pragmatic leadership rooted in service, collaboration, and results. Today, he continues to engage in civic and leadership development efforts across the state, drawing on his deep understanding of Texas government and commitment to building effective institutions.
Texas State Senator Roland Gutierrez, Former State Representative (D-San Antonio)
The son of immigrants, Senator Roland Gutierrez believes everyone that works hard in this country deserves a fair shot at the American dream. As State Senator, Gutierrez established the AgriStress hotline to address increasing rural mental health care shortages and worked across the aisle to secure $100 million in emergency funds for farmers. AgriStress has grown into a successful multi-state program. Senator Gutierrez has been a champion for common sense gun safety reform following the Robb Elementary Massacre in Uvalde, Texas that claimed the lives of 19 fourth-graders and two teachers. In the 87th Legislature, Gutierrez passed a bill to address severe conditions affecting pregnancies. As State Representative, Gutierrez served as Chairman of the Defense and Veterans' Affairs Committee where he established the National Warrior Resiliency Center for PTSD treatment, passed measures keeping Texas military bases open, and secured funding for the San Antonio State Hospital. On San Antonio City Council, Gutierrez helped establish Texas A&M University at San Antonio and Mission Branch Library, the first library constructed on San Antonio's Southside in 30+ years. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, Gutierrez graduated from Central Catholic High School (1989). He earned his B.A. in Political Science from the University of Texas at San Antonio (1995) and law degree from St. Mary's University School of Law (1998). He is Founder and President of the Gutierrez Law Firm, specializing in immigration law. Senator Gutierrez, his wife Sarah, and daughters Izabella and Victoria live in the Mission San Jose neighborhood. They are members of the Mission San Jose Parish and active in community projects.