I was living as a young single mom. I was 19 when I was divorced, and my daughter was a year old, and I waited tables here three to four nights a week for several years while I was trying to support myself and my daughter and the day I got that acceptance at Harvard Law School was an unforgettable day.

I haven't pursued it as a senator because I know it's like spitting in the wind. But I still believe it's the right thing. And if I were governor and a bill came to my desk that provided for background checks at gun shows, I would sign that.

The last thing Texas women need in their lives is Greg Abbott.

I would be lying if I told you that I hadn't had aspirations to run for a statewide office.

Harvard was the most intimidating experience. I felt so out of my league there.

You won't change things unless you are prepared to fight, even if you don't win. But I do hate losing.

I am running for my Senate district in 2014 and looking forward hopefully to earning the confidence of my community once again and being reelected for that seat.