Why AM I Running?
“The issue closest to my heart is public schools. Investment in public schools is investment in resilient communities and a more prosperous future for us all. My concern for the future of our Texas public schools is the main reason I am running.”
Make our communities stronger
Most of us are workers. We work better when life necessities like food, education, health care, childcare, housing and transportation are under control. Policies that keep these basics within reach for more families help workers stay on the path to the American Dream. That means better communities for all of us.
Protect our Freedoms wisely and responsibly.
The price of freedom for ourselves is respecting the freedoms of others. We need to balance our freedoms so that we grant as much freedom as we can to each of us, while doing what we must to protect the freedom, health, and safety of all of us.
Pull us together instead of pushing us apart
Our current hyperpolarized political discourse is over-heated and dangerous. We can stand up for what we think is right without demonizing, belittling or shaming people who disagree with us. As a legislator, I will lead the way in showing us how to work together.
What I’m
Running
To Do
EXPERIENCE
PUBLIC SCHOOL
ABT is certified to teach English, history, and sociology in high school and core subjects in elementary school including the science of reading.
BUSINESS
ABT ran her own business, worked for a small business, and worked with large corporations such as Shell Oil and Delta Airlines. She developed training for oil field operations, retail sales, customer service, and leadership, among other topics.
STRATEGIC PLANNING
ABT has facilitated strategic planning for schools and departments throughout Baylor and for numerous organizations in McLennan County including Habitat for Humanity, Compassion Ministries, the Hewitt Chamber of Commerce, and many others.
Meet
Ashley Bean
Thornton
An innovator with a long history of commitment to the community…
Act Locally Waco
ABT invented Act Locally Waco, the go-to website for getting involved in the community. She ran it as a volunteer project for 10 years. It’s still going strong!
Waco Walks
There’s no better way to get to know your community than by walking it. ABT started Waco Walks in 2016 with 12 walkers. Now 50 to 100 folks gather 6 times a year to get some steps and get to know their community.
Mclennan County Talks
Politics is getting too nasty! We all complain about it, but ABT did something about it. She founded McLennan County Talks. Since kicking off in January 2025 , the group has already hosted over 15 community meet-ups to promote civil community conversation and to help people learn about how the state and local government affect our lives every day.
ABT’s Motto
“Get informed. Get involved. Get a great community.”
Let's GET TO WORK!
Join the Campaign
This is a neighbor-to-neighbor effort. Every conversation, volunteer shift, and dollar helps.