Democrat · Texas's 36th District · 2026
Rhonda Hart
Hart worked as a school bus driver in Santa Fe after serving in the Army.
Biography
Rhonda Hart served in the Army and later worked as a school bus driver and trainer in Santa Fe, Texas.1 In 2018, her 14 year old daughter, Kimberly, was killed in the Santa Fe High School shooting, a loss Hart discusses openly in explaining her gun safety advocacy.2
Her work has also included early childhood education and customer service leadership, and her public career profile lists an associate degree in early childhood education from the University of Alaska Southeast.1 She is also the mother of a son who attended Texas public schools.3
Since her daughter's death, Hart has advocated safer firearm storage and measures aimed at preventing gun violence.2 As a veteran who uses VA care, she says improving veterans' access to medical treatment and support is another priority.3 Her campaign opposes school vouchers and supports public school funding, including pay for teachers and support staff.3
Hart also favors abortion access, renewable energy investment, a higher minimum wage and a health care system that does not depend on a person's employment.3 She calls for stronger oversight of immigration enforcement and opposes the SAVE Act's proposed voting requirements.3 Republican incumbent Brian Babin is her opponent for the 36th District.4