The USA is considered a bi-colored nation with red and blue states. Although this bifurcation simplifies politics, political ideologies have varying shades of complexity.
The Republicans and Democrats are also a part of an American’s identity. Some believe this divergence has become so prominent that one’s political leanings can be determined just by their appearance.
However, a binary viewpoint can be problematic to any state, especially when it leads to racial profiling, supremacy squads, or debarring immigrants. Trump’s immigration policy harmed the refugees seeking asylum and hampered the highly-skilled H-1B visa seekers. Later, the vote of confidence declined for his administration.
In order for any party to fully grasp the plight of minorities, there has to be a representative of each community. The Republicans are infamous for the majority white foothold in the party.
Even then, Will Hurd emerged as a significant contributor as the sole black Republican.
Who Is Will Hurd?
Will Hurd, born on 19 August 1977 in San Antonio, Texas, has generally enjoyed a normal childhood. He graduated from John Marshall Highschool in 1995 and enrolled at Texas A&M University, majoring in Computer Science. He also selected International Relations as his minor and graduated with BSc in 2000.
However, he found his true calling in the CIA as one of the guest lecturers, James Olson, inspired him to join the agency. He worked as an undercover agent for nearly a decade (2000-2009), recruiting spies, investigating, and gathering secrets while stationed at different corners like the Middle East and South East Asia.
Post the CIA, he joined cybersecurity firms, still actively contributing to people’s welfare. When asked why he wrote in his book about the disappointment in the members of Congress, he said, “I had to brief members of Congress, and I was pretty shocked by the caliber of our elected officials. And my mama always said, “You’re either part of the problem or part of the solution.” I just felt I could help the intelligence community in a different way to help keep the country safe.”
In a practice-what-you-preach ideology, he entered politics in 2014 and was three times back-to-back representative for Texas 23rd Congressional District on the Republican Party platform. This was a monumental feat, considering he was the only “black representative.”
What Ethnicity Does Will Hurd Belong To?
Will was born to Robert Hurd, who is of black descent, and Mary Alice Hurd, who is Caucasian. So naturally, he is considered as “mixed-race.”
However, the question here is about ethnicity. Hurd has mentioned in several interviews that he follows his father’s political ideology. He joined the Republican party hoping to bring positive reforms for minorities.
In an interesting interview with the Daily Show host Trevor Noah, he explains his origins and ideologies.
Some may call it paradoxical; some may say it’s respectfully conflicting with each other– but the interview does point out the importance of ethnicity and representation in any party.
The Great Distinction Between Race And Ethnicity
Will Hurd is considered mixed race based on his genetic makeup and appearance. However, his ethnicity is determined by the culture he identifies with. He may either lean towards his black heritage or identify better with his mom’s side. Regardless, his ethnicity also shapes his beliefs.
As displayed by his ideologies and his open criticisms of Trump’s policies, it is safe to say that this “mixed-race” rep is also advocating against bigotry, misogyny, and other negative traits perpetuated by the conservative Republicans.
Why Did Will Hurd Leave GOP?
In a tell-all interview, Will Hurd, the three-time R-Texas, explains his decision to leave the party. Even when he was deemed as the “future of the party,” Hurd had a different vision than the party’s views. He said, “My final message for my colleagues as I depart this body – don’t treat bipartisanship like a four-letter word. The only way big things have ever been done in this country is by doing them together.”
He even hinted at a possible campaign for presidential elections–
What do you think of Will Hurd’s political views?
Do you agree with his stance as the sole black representative in GOP? Do you think Republicans should have more representation?
How likely are you to vote for him as the next president? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: NPR
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