Hobby Talks
Hobby Talks is a podcast series from the Hobby School of Public Affairs produced in partnership with the Center for Student Media at the University of Houston. Hosted by Dean Jim Granato and Hobby School faculty, the podcast features timely conversations on politics and policy with experts, scholars and those guiding the most complex challenges facing our region and state.
Hobby Talks
A Conversation with Houston City Council Member Alejandra Salinas
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On this episode of Hobby Talks, Hobby School Dean Jim Granato sits down with Alejandra Salinas, the newest at-large member of the Houston City Council. They discuss how her early advocacy, from organizing a high school walkout to speaking at the 2012 Democratic National Convention and serving as president of the College Democrats of America, shaped her belief in using her voice to serve others. Salinas shares what inspired her to run for public office, her vision for City Hall, strategies for making local government more accessible, and advice for students pursuing public service careers. She also discusses working collaboratively with various stakeholders, using data to guide policy, and addressing Houston’s most pressing challenges. Salinas won a special election in December 2025. She is the first LGBTQ+ Latina elected to serve on the Houston City Council. In addition to her work in public office, Salinas is an attorney and a partner at Susman Godfrey.