Theodis Daniel, the father of Devarjay “DJ” Daniel, is jumping into the political arena.
Speaking first to Fox News Digital, Daniel said he’s ready to fight for Texas’ 18th congressional district.
Daniel joins a crowded field of candidates from across the political spectrum, but the father and veteran said his campaign is unlike the others.
“I’m a regular guy. I am not a politician,” Daniel said. “I don’t have six-figure deals. I’m just a regular dude trying to make it. Single dad. I got three kids to myself. I’m a disabled veteran just trying to make a difference regardless of what I’m going through.”
The Republican candidate said he is running “for those who struggle,” explaining that his campaign priorities – supporting law enforcement, safety, healthcare and education – aren’t just abstract ideas but “battles my family and I face every day.”
Daniel’s 13-year-old son, DJ, was named an honorary U.S. Secret Service agent during President Donald Trump’s joint address to Congress earlier this year. Daniel proudly raised his son up over his shoulder as politicians jumped to their feet for a standing ovation.
The moment catapulted Daniel into the national conversation, and the 13-year-old was invited to visit Trump at the White House the following day.
Daniel has now been sworn in at more than 1,300 law enforcement agencies across the country, the White House confirmed in May.
“DJ initially had five months to live, and we’ve beaten that,” Daniel shared with Fox News.
Texas is holding a special election on Nov. 4 to replace the late Rep. Sylvester Turner, who succeeded the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee.
Lee represented Texas’ 18th congressional district for nearly three decades before her death in July 2024. Turner also died in March 2025, leading to the current special election.
