It it with great sadness that I write to you with news of the passing of James Barnett, our Data Director.

James speaking at a Texas Democratic Workshop in Richmond in March

James was dedicated to the ideals of our democracy, and chose to live his too short life in service to others. His passing is a great loss to the TDP, and to all those who believe in democracy and Democratic values.

Below please find the official TDP statement on this loss.

And thank you for keeping James’ family in your thoughts and prayers.

Gilberto Hinojosa

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Yesterday the Texas Democratic Party learned of the passing of James Barnett our Data Director. Words cannot express the sadness we feel from the loss of our colleague and dear friend.

James came to the party in January of this year, having previously served as the Data and Voter File Manager in Nevada. James was a 2004 graduate of Rossville High School, and a 2008 graduate of the University of Evansville. He was an avid sports fan. His favorite teams were the Cardinals, Colts and Pacers and he was a huge fan of college basketball.

But James was most passionate about his job. He worked across this great country to fight for his values through supporting Democratic candidates and causes. As we contemplate his loss, we are thankful for all that he has given us through his love of service to others.

We ask that you keep James in your heart and his family in your prayers. James is survived by his parents Randy and Charlotte and his brothers and sisters Bryan, Sarah, Chris, Erik, Abee, and Bekah.

On a personal note:  Y’all, this is very tough for me, so I won’t be posting today.  I was on the hiring team who found James at the Nevada Democratic Party and brought him to Texas.  The night after his first interview (and his first visit to Texas), Don and I took him to Stubbs Barbeque in Austin and fed him the all-you-can-eat plate. We were accompanied by two of my other favorite people, Glen Maxey and Huey Rey Fischer.  James fit in beautifully and believed in what we are trying to do in Texas.  He and I shared a love of baseball and all things nerdy.  I was honored to work with this bright and charming young man on many occasions, including a training visit to my county.  My heart breaks for his family.  I personally know what they are going through and it is unimaginable.  I miss his plaid shirts, his lousy Star Wars references, and arguing with him over baseball.  James Barnett was loved.  He was 27 years old.