political accountability Texas, disaster response leadership, community support during crises

The Broken Bridge

To every Texas incumbent and candidate who never showed up

In Texas, we’ve seen our fair share of challenges, but nothing quite compares to the devastation left in the wake of a flood. As we stood on the broken bridge, surrounded by waist-deep floodwater, it was a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with leadership. While communities banded together to support one another, those in power remained distant, standing behind polished shoes, untouched by the chaos.

While we stood on the broken bridge

The image of the broken bridge became a symbol of neglect. It reminded us that our leaders are meant to be there in times of crisis. Instead, they were absent, leaving ordinary citizens to shoulder the burden alone. When the waters rose, we didn’t see them rallying to help families in need; we saw them continuing their political games, seemingly indifferent to the suffering around them.

And in waist-deep floodwater

In the midst of the turmoil, we witnessed true resilience. Neighbors helped neighbors, carrying the families of the dead and offering comfort where it was needed most. The contrast was stark: while we were all hands on deck, our representatives were nowhere to be found. This lack of presence during such critical times raises questions about accountability and empathy in leadership.

You stood behind polished shoes

As citizens, we deserve leaders who are present and engaged, especially in times of crisis. The polished shoes symbolize a disconnect from reality, a reminder that the very people we elect to serve us often prioritize their own comfort over the needs of the community.

While we carried the families of the dead

It’s time for those in power to step off their pedestals and truly engage with their constituents. The call to action is clear: we need leaders who will stand with us, not just in times of prosperity, but also in the depths of despair.

You never came

The message is loud and clear: we expect accountability, empathy, and action from our elected officials. The broken bridge may symbolize a physical divide, but it also highlights the emotional and moral distance that exists when leaders fail to show up. It’s time for change, and it starts with demanding better from those we elect.