Tommy Calvert is considering running for the 21st Congressional seat as an Independent

Tommy Calvert (photo)
possible Independent candidate
for the 21st Cong. Dist.


Tommy Calvert is apparently interested in running for Congress. The 25-year-old Eastside activist and son of T.C. Calvert, told Express-News staff writer Greg Jefferson, Friday, he is "strongly considering' taking on US Rep. Lamar Smith in the 21st Congressional District.

Jefferson quoted him as saying, "I have had enough of what's going on. Repubicans are hungry for change, independents are hungry for change and Democrats are hungry for change."

During a brainstorming meeting at Johnny's Mexican Restaurant on North New Braunfels, Saturday, August 12th, Tommy attracted well over 30 Democrats to hear him speak about his possible run for the 21 Congressional District.

All who attended, were either Democratic activists or registered Democrats. During his presentation Calvert pointed out that if he runs, he will run as an Independent.

Carla Vela, Democratic Party Chair told Calvert, "I love you very much and have always hoped you would run for public office. As the Democratic Party Chair I can only support Democratic candidates. Please reconsider running as a Democrat."

Pct. Chairman William B. Johnson reinforced that thought. "As a pct. chair if I support anyone other than a Democrat, I will be forced to resign as a pct. chair, because it states in the Party by-laws that we can only support Democratic candidates."

Current Congressional District 21 Democratic candidate John Courage attended and passed out his literature at the front door. Calvert welcomed him and introduced to the gathering by saying, "John is a long time friend and I appreciate his coming here to hear what I had to say."

Calvert told the crowd that "this race is all about the family. I have friends on both sides of the political spectrum who want to see change."

He pointed out that he will be touring the district on a listening mission to hear what constitents are concerned about.

"I know that when some people hear of my possible candidacy, they will be throwing mud at me even though my race would be about reinforcing hope and opportunity," he explained.

Charlie Jones, Tejano Chair told Calvert that when he goes to the rural areas he needs to address the corporations who consolidate and gobble up all the farms, immigration and water.

Balcones Heights Councilman Steve Walker said, "I have known Tommy since he was 17-years-old. He is articulate and has the compassion to do what is right for everyone. He reminds me of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr."

Calvert says he feels he is the only candidate in the race who can reunite everyone as an independent candidate.

"As an independent it is not about the right or the left, it is about right and wrong," he added to applause.

Dr. Fred Williams, moderator and professor at UTSA in the African-American Studies Department said "this is a momentous and historical day to elect the 1st Black Congressman from San Antonio."

Calvert also said he needed to quickly raise 20-thousand dollars in the next two weeks to make the race viable. The group will meet again next week at Johnny's Mexican Restaurant to discuss stategy.