Theodis Daniel, father of 13-year-old cancer survivor DJ Daniel who was honored by President Donald Trump before Congress earlier this year, is running for Texas’ 18th Congressional District, according to a report from Fox News.
Daniel, a disabled veteran and single father raising three children, says his decision to run is fueled by the same determination he’s shown in supporting his son through a rare and aggressive cancer battle.
“I’m a regular guy. I am not a politician,” Daniel said. “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.”
He describes himself as a “public servant first,” committed to getting up every day and “making it happen” for the people of Texas.
Hey Texas….
DJ Daniels Father, Theodis Daniel announces he is running for Texas Congressional District 18
Will you vote for him?
The special election to fill the vacant seat seat is scheduled for November 4, 2025.
He’s a disabled veteran, single father raising three… https://t.co/gyXdHxgln9 pic.twitter.com/KE1uJmmiXy
— MJTruthUltra (@MJTruthUltra) August 14, 2025
Campaign Priorities: Law, Safety, and Opportunity
Daniel’s platform centers on supporting law enforcement, keeping communities safe, ensuring affordable healthcare, and providing quality education for all children. These, he says, are “battles my family and I face every day.”
The special election to fill the vacant seat is set for November 4, 2025.
A Trump White House Moment
DJ Daniel, a police enthusiast, captured national attention when President Trump named him an honorary U.S. Secret Service agent during his State of the Union-style address. The emotional moment saw Daniel lift his son above his head to a standing ovation from Republicans in the House chamber.
“Tonight, DJ, we’re going to do you the biggest honor of them all,” Trump said during the speech. “I am asking our new Secret Service director, Sean Curran, to officially make you an agent of the United States Secret Service.”
The following day, DJ and his father visited the White House to meet President Trump in person.
Running to Give Hope
Daniel says the past six years of challenges have shown him the importance of bringing hope and joy to others. “I feel like everything my son and I have been doing… gave people hope. I didn’t think it was going to turn into this, but it feels good,” he told Fox News.
