April 20, 2025 Story by: Publisher
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr., a seasoned member of the Texas House of Representatives, has been serving the people of District 142 since 1985. A lifelong Democrat and native of Fifth Ward, Texas, Dutton’s journey began in the Kelly Courts.
He graduated from Phillis Wheatley High School and went on to earn a BBA in Accounting from Texas Southern University (TSU), where he was honored as a “Distinguished Alumnus” by the TSU School of Business.
Professional Background
Before his long-standing political career, Dutton held management positions at Conoco Inc., focusing on corporate planning and economic analysis. He later became President of Four Star Broadcasting, launching TV-67, an independent UHF-TV station in Houston, with the help of the late Congressman Mickey Leland.
Legislative Career and Achievements
Dutton has been a prominent figure in Texas politics, serving his seventeenth term in the House. He currently chairs the Committee on Juvenile Justice and Family Issues and has been a long-standing member of the Public Education Committee. His legislative efforts have focused on education reform, criminal justice, and supporting minority-owned businesses.
Dutton’s notable achievements include sponsoring Texas’ first statutory program for women and minority-owned businesses, enhancing public education, and advocating for juvenile justice reform. He has also been instrumental in passing legislation for Texas’ annual sales tax holiday and initiatives to protect consumer rights.
Political Stance and Advocacy
While Dutton often aligns with Democratic policies, he occasionally collaborates with conservatives on civil rights issues. He supports government spending on social welfare programs and has consistently voted against school choice and restrictions on gun rights. His legislative ratings reflect his Democratic leanings, with low scores from conservative groups like Texans for Fiscal Responsibility and Texas Right to Life.
Controversies and Political Actions
Dutton has been involved in high-profile political actions, such as joining fellow Democrats in fleeing to Washington, D.C., in 2021 to block election integrity reforms. He also participated in a similar protest in 2003, absconding to Oklahoma to prevent a vote on a Republican redistricting proposal.
Community Involvement and Recognition
Beyond his legislative work, Dutton is a self-employed trial lawyer and adjunct professor at TSU Law School. He has been recognized by numerous organizations for his contributions, including the Houston Police Officers’ Association and the American Civil Liberties Union.
Rep. Harold V. Dutton Jr. remains a significant figure in Texas politics, known for his dedication to his constituents and his efforts to address critical issues in education and justice.
Source: Texas House of Representatives
