Theodis Daniel, a disabled veteran and father of three, has announced his candidacy for Texas’ 18th congressional district in the special election scheduled for November 4, 2025. The Republican contender says he is “not a politician” and is running to represent everyday Texans, as reported by Fox News.
“I’m a regular guy. I am not a politician,” Daniel said. “I don’t have six-figure deals. I’m just a regular dude trying to make it. Single dad. I got three kids to myself. I’m a disabled veteran just trying to make a difference regardless of what I’m going through.”
Daniel’s campaign priorities include support for law enforcement, public safety, healthcare, and education. He says these issues are personal to him and his family. “I don’t call myself a politician. I’m a public servant first, because my duty is to the people,” Daniel stated.
His 13-year-old son, DJ, survived cancer after doctors once gave him five months to live. Earlier this year, DJ was named an honorary U.S. Secret Service agent during President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress.
In that moment, Daniel lifted his son over his shoulder as members of Congress gave a standing ovation. The following day, DJ visited the White House.
“Joining us in the gallery tonight is a young man who truly loves our police. His name is DJ Daniel, he is 13 years old, and he has always dreamed of becoming a police officer,” President Trump said during the address.
Trump then invited Secret Service Director Sean Curran to make DJ an official honorary agent.
Since then, DJ has been sworn in at more than 1,300 law enforcement agencies nationwide, according to the White House.
Daniel said his experiences have taught him resilience. “I want to run because I feel like everything that my son and I have been doing for the last six years or so, we have brought joy to people’s lives and gave them hope,” he said.
He also pledged to support term limits, saying too many elected officials lose focus after extended time in office.
“Sometimes, when you marinate meat, you kind of ruin it. Some people just wear out their welcome,” Daniel said, adding that when politicians get comfortable, they “get lazy” and “forgetful.”
The special election will determine the successor to Rep. Sylvester Turner, who died in March 2025 after taking office following the death of longtime Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee in July 2024.
The district includes parts of northern and eastern Houston, downtown Houston, the city of Humble, and areas within Harris County.
