On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, KPRC Click2Houston reported that Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo addressed recent political challenges and criticisms during an exclusive interview. In a conversation with KPRC 2’s Rilwan Balogun, Hidalgo responded to efforts by some commissioners to seek her removal, describing these actions as distractions from pressing community issues.

Hidalgo, who has faced political scrutiny following a censure vote, characterized the attempts to oust her as detrimental to democracy. She specifically criticized Commissioner Tom Ramsey’s announcement regarding her potential removal, labeling it a “torpedo into the heart of democracy” in Texas. Hidalgo expressed frustration that political maneuvers are overshadowing essential programs that serve families and children in the community.

“I do acknowledge I curse a little too much, but people know that I’m not a well-manicured talking points politician,” Hidalgo stated, emphasizing her commitment to authenticity in her role. She shared her disappointment over the discussions shifting away from critical community services, stating, “So disappointing that we’re talking about this instead of the programs that will end and the many families and children that will not be served because of these votes.”

When asked about her plans for re-election, Hidalgo refrained from committing to a specific course of action but asserted that anyone qualified is welcome to run against her. She challenged her critics, including Ramsey, to demonstrate their support in the upcoming election instead of pursuing her removal through alternative methods.

Hidalgo raised concerns about a potential state takeover of the Harris County flood control district, characterizing it as another distraction. She criticized her colleagues for not allowing critical funding decisions to be put to a public vote, which she described as disenfranchisement motivated by personal political interests.

In the interview, Hidalgo reaffirmed her dedication to the community despite the ongoing attacks, stating, “I was elected to serve twice… if Commissioner Ramsey or anybody would like to change that… election season’s ramping up and I invite them to run against me.” She dismissed claims that her removal would be warranted, calling such efforts “anti-democratic” and a misuse of laws designed to allow judges from neighboring counties to remove elected officials.

Hidalgo also expressed concern over recent decisions by the commissioners’ court that could jeopardize access to early childhood education programs for thousands of families. She highlighted that these decisions could have long-lasting effects, stating that “these tough decisions that are attacking families and children in Harris County are going to continue for the next few weeks.”

While some programs may continue for a limited time, Hidalgo clarified that they are ultimately slated for termination, indicating that many families already enrolled in these programs will be adversely affected. She criticized her colleagues for claiming a lack of time to address the issue, labeling those arguments as misleading and challenging their validity.

Hidalgo noted that the county’s early childhood initiatives were intended to prepare children ages zero to four for school readiness, citing a 2019 study indicating that 40% of children are not adequately prepared for learning. She warned that the decision to cut these programs would leave families without essential support and disrupt childcare providers who have invested in building the necessary capacity.

The judge further criticized the commissioners for refusing to allow voters to decide on funding for early childhood education, which she termed a significant disenfranchisement. She emphasized the broad impact of these budget decisions, which also threaten funding for public health, mosquito control, libraries, and juvenile justice programs across the county.

 

 

Source: KPRC Click2Houston