'This Is Where Democracy Fights Back': Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia Reports for Jury Duty, Urges Civic Participation Amid Attacks on Courts
HOUSTON, TX - Today, Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29), a former judge, Houston City Controller, and longtime public servant, is reminding constituents that protecting democracy starts with showing up, and that includes answering the call of jury duty.
In a new video, Congresswoman Garcia shares her experience reporting for jury service at the Harris County Jury Assembly Building and calls on constituents to treat jury service as more than a civic duty, but as a powerful act of democratic participation.
"Even as a Member of Congress, I'm still called to serve. And I'm proud to do it. Right now, our justice system is under attack. We've seen growing efforts to discredit our courts, undermine our judges, and politicize the rule of law. But jury service is the foundation. The very beginning of where we can fight for our democracy and take it back," said Congresswoman Garcia. "Jury service is how everyday people, from every walk of life, come together to protect fairness, impartiality, and justice. It's where we say justice belongs to the people, not politicians, and not to the powerful."
With courts, judges, and the justice system as a whole facing unprecedented political pressure from the Trump administration and his Republican allies in Congress, Congresswoman Garcia's message is clear: jury duty is not a burden – it's a frontline defense of American democracy.
Contact: Joseph Guzman | Joseph.Guzman@mail.house.gov