Theodis Daniel, a disabled veteran and a proud father of three, is throwing his hat in the ring for Texas’ 18th congressional district in the special election. This election is set for November 4, 2025, and Daniel is making waves by stating clearly, “I’m not a politician.” His campaign is focused on representing everyday Texans, emphasizing his desire to make a real difference in his community.
In Daniel’s own words, he’s just a regular guy trying to make ends meet. He doesn’t have six-figure deals; instead, he’s a single dad juggling the responsibilities that come with raising three kids. As a disabled veteran, he’s passionate about bringing a fresh perspective to politics, rooted in real-life experiences rather than political gamesmanship.
Daniel is prioritizing support for law enforcement, public safety, healthcare, and education in his campaign. These issues hit close to home for him, and he believes they resonate with many families in the district. “I’m a public servant first, because my duty is to the people,” he asserts, focusing on how he can best serve his community.
His family story is both heartwarming and inspiring. His 13-year-old son, DJ, is a cancer survivor who was once given only five months to live. Earlier this year, DJ was honored by being named an honorary U.S. Secret Service agent during President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress.
During that memorable moment, Daniel proudly lifted his son over his shoulder amidst a standing ovation from Congress. The day after, DJ got the chance to visit the White House, a testament to the journey he and his family have been on. President Trump, while addressing Congress, introduced DJ as a young man who truly loves the police.
Trump went on to invite Secret Service Director Sean Curran to make DJ an honorary agent, a moment that underscored the family’s strong ties to law enforcement. Since then, DJ has been warmly welcomed by over 1,300 law enforcement agencies across the nation, as noted by the White House.
Reflecting on these experiences, Daniel shares, “I want to run because I feel like everything that my son and I have been doing for the last six years or so, we have brought joy to people’s lives and gave them hope.” This sense of hope fuels his desire to bring about positive change.
Daniel is also advocating for term limits, emphasizing how prolonged time in office can cause politicians to lose their focus. He humorously compares it to marinating meat too long, saying, “Some people just wear out their welcome,” and points out how career politicians can become complacent and forgetful.
The special election will fill the seat left vacant by the late Rep. Sylvester Turner, who passed away in March 2025. Turner had taken office following the death of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee in July 2024. The district covers parts of northern and eastern Houston, downtown Houston, the city of Humble, and areas within Harris County.
Daniel’s campaign is gaining traction as he reaches out to voters, sharing his story and vision for Texas. He is a candidate who understands the challenges faced by everyday Texans and is committed to addressing their needs. His approach is grounded in personal experiences rather than political rhetoric.
In addition to his campaign promises, Daniel’s story is a testament to resilience and determination. He has faced personal challenges head-on and emerged with a desire to serve and uplift his community. His candidacy offers a refreshing alternative to career politicians and promises a focus on real issues.
As the election date approaches, Daniel continues to engage with voters, emphasizing his commitment to public service. His message is clear: he aims to bring about meaningful change for Texans, drawing from his life experiences to inform his policies. Daniel’s journey from veteran to congressional candidate is inspiring many.
Daniel is focused on building a campaign that resonates with the values of his district. He is determined to highlight the importance of law enforcement, healthcare, and education, ensuring these priorities are at the forefront of his legislative agenda. His unique perspective as a father and veteran enriches his candidacy.
Through his campaign, Daniel is sending a message of hope and perseverance. He is a candidate who embodies the values of hard work and determination, and he is committed to making a difference. As he continues to share his story, he is inspiring others to believe in the power of positive change.
