A coalition of rural Democratic groups and organizations are gathering in Bastrop this Friday and Saturday for a Rural Summit.
Hosted by The 134 PAC and the Coalition of Democratic Allies, the Rural Texas Summit: Building Coalitions, will take place June 13–14, 2025, at the Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center, 1408 Chestnut Street, Bastrop, Texas.
The theme is Uniting Rural Voices for a Stronger Texas.
Other sponsors and partners include The Texas Democratic Party, The Back Forty, Mothers Against Greg Abbott, Texas Organizing Project PAC, and The Texas Alliance for Retired Americans. The Concho Observer is also a sponsor of this event.
We spoke to Carla Schoonover, co-founder of The 134 PAC and the organizer of the event.
“Rural Texas is at a crossroads.” Schoonover said, “For decades, rural communities have faced mounting challenges—from underfunded schools and healthcare deserts to political underrepresentation and economic stagnation.”
The Rural Summit, according to Schoonover, is a bold, solutions-driven gathering aimed at empowering rural voices and building sustainable political infrastructure across the state.
The idea was born out of a deep commitment to rural Texans who have long been overlooked in statewide policy conversations. “This summit is designed to bring together community leaders, activists, elected officials, and everyday citizens to strategize, collaborate, and take action.”
If You Go
Held over two days at the Bastrop Convention Center, the summit will feature:
- Panel Discussions on:
- Relating to rural voters and navigating tough political conversations
- Education challenges post-vouchers and paths forward
- Urban-rural collaboration for a stronger Texas
- Firsthand stories from women running for office in rural areas
- Networking Opportunities with like-minded individuals and organizations committed to rural progress.
- Friday Night Fundraiser with dinner and entertainment to support ongoing organizing efforts
Schoonover said she believes this is more than just a conference. “It’s a movement.” She said. The Summit goals include:
- Building Coalitions: Strengthening ties between rural and urban Texans to create a unified front for change.
- Empowering Local Leaders: Providing tools, training, and inspiration for rural Texans to lead in their communities.
- Reclaiming the Narrative: Elevating the voices of rural Texans and challenging the stereotypes that have long defined them in state and national politics.
You can find more information here: https://www.the134pac.org/rural-texas-summit-virtual-programs
