Campaign Email: TBillbartie@gmail.com
Summary of Candidate Professional/Civic Background:
A lifelong Port Arthur native, former Mayor Thurman Bill Bartie has dedicated his career to public service, education, ministry, and community leadership. From his historic election as the first African – American Justice of the Peace in Precinct 8 Jefferson County to his work as Mayor, his life reflects commitment, compassion and integrity.
Matriculating at Prairie View A & M University to study Political Science following high school graduation from Lincoln High school in Port Arthur. Being featured as the Male Soloist with the Prairie View A & M A Capella Choir as a Freshman. Later transferring to Lamar University and being conferred the Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. Furthering educational and professional pursuits by enrolling in Commonwealth College of Sciences and graduating with honors in Mortuary Science as a Funeral Director and Embalmer, subsequently being licensed by the State of Texas to practice the profession and serving at Hannah Funeral Home, Inc in Port Arthur, Texas. Continuing scholastic and academic knowledge, enrolling at Tennessee Temple University Baptist Seminary and receiving the Master of Ministry degree with a concentration on Theological Application in Chattanooga, TN. Also serving as Pastor of the First Sixth Street Baptist Church for three years. Working as an educator at PAISD, Memorial High School teaching American Government and Street Law.
Why would you be an effective leader in this role?
Effective Leadership is obtained through a commitment of service to mankind in various capacities. The experiences obtained during the aforementioned opportunities afforded to serve, renders me; Thurman Bill Bartie, the ideal candidate for Congressional District 14. The varied and mixed cultures and ethnicities encompassed in the district lends itself to an individual with a skill set of understanding and compassion for those who are different, yet human as the entire population. We cannot separate the fact of our differences, however, there are numerous commonalities, traits and practices which lead us to a common goal of survival in our Congressional District as well as our great nation, the United States of America. I posses the giftedness of being able to work within various cultures, resulting in the final analysis of positivity for the good of the entire population involved. The climate within our Federal government presently, calls for the ability to work across the aisle of partisanship and discover the “common denominator” beneficial to all. The practice of compromise has to be a skill for the next congressperson for our district. God has endowed and blessed me with the qualities needed to be an effective leader, given the opportunity.
What are three platform points that are important to you?
My platform is centered on the needs of the people of Congressional District 14. My beliefs are shaped by lived experiences, community conversation, and commitment to practical solutions truly improving daily life.
Economic Opportunity
Every citizen deserves access to good jobs and fair wages. I support congressional involvement in job training, small business growth, safe working conditions, strong local economic development and reviewing the debt of our nation versus the growth potential and actual business climate as it relates to C D 14. Support for the industrial growth as well as sustainability of the industries within our congressional scope.
Education (Pre-school thru Collegiate or Technical Training)
Education is the backbone of opportunity for all citizens; notwithstanding, one’s gender, ethnic background, creed or color, our government has to support availing the opportunity of basic learning and even higher education to all American citizens. Removal of proven systems of educating citizens to appease the wealthy is not an objective supported by me. Educators should be compensated as the professionals they really are and the institutions where the educating is taking place must be financed in an equitable and fair manner resulting in a level playing field for all. These practices will result in a clear path to success for all participants.
Healthcare
Every citizen should have access to affordable and reliable healthcare without barriers impeding the delivery of such services. I support strengthening and restoring the Affordable Care Act so individuals can manage health concerns and continue to maintain a good quality of life.
This campaign is about unity; bringing people together, safe neighborhoods, strong schools, good jobs, and a future our children can be proud of. This approach does not belong to any one party, it’s a concept we can all embrace and move this country forward. I believe progress occurs when people work together. I am committed to cooperation, common sense, and listening to the voices of Southeast Texas, Congressional District 14. Placing “People Over Politics!”
