08/07/2026
What a pleasure it was to meet former Dallas Mayor Steve Bartlett today.
Steve served as Mayor of Dallas beginning in 1991—a year that was a pivotal time in my own life—and listening to him today brought back memories of a Texas and an America that, in many ways, feel very far removed from where we are now.
Steve Bartlett is a strong Republican, and he is also an example of the kind of Republican leader I have always been able to admire and appreciate. He is grounded. His character, ethics, intelligence, and respect for public service are evident. At a time when those qualities can feel increasingly absent from our political life, I was reminded today of how much they matter—and how much we lose when character and integrity become secondary to politics.
One of my favorite parts of the conversation was hearing Steve speak about his discussions and experiences with Governor Ann Richards. I grew up in Texas when Ann Richards was governor, and I remember her with tremendous fondness. The warmth and candor with which Steve—a Republican—spoke about Ann—a Democrat—was especially meaningful to me.
There was something hopeful in hearing that two people could disagree politically and still recognize the humanity, wit, intelligence, and worth in one another. It reminded me of an energy I deeply miss—not just about being a Texan, but about being an American.
We do not have to agree on everything to respect one another. We do not have to belong to the same political party to recognize character when we see it. And we should never allow politics to rob us of our ability to admire decency, integrity, humor, and genuine public service.
I left today feeling unexpectedly hopeful—and with a little more love in my heart for the Texas I remember.
I also came home with Steve Bartlett’s book, The Power of Purpose, which I very much look forward to reading.
Thank you, Steve Bartlett, for spending time with us today at the Lions Club, for sharing your stories so candidly, and for reminding me that principled leadership and mutual respect do not have to belong to one political party—or to the past.
— Jennifer
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