Joe Moody serves as the representative for Texas’s District 78, which encompasses a diverse mix of urban and rural areas primarily in northern El Paso County. He holds the position of Speaker Pro Tempore of the Texas House and acts as Vice Chair of the Calendars Committee. Additionally, he is a member of several important committees including Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence, Redistricting, and the Select Committee on Opioids and Substance Abuse. His legislative focus has greatly emphasized criminal justice reform, mental health initiatives, and promoting educational equity.

A lifelong resident of El Paso, Moody comes from a family rooted in public service, with a father who served as a District Judge and a mother who was an educator. He was married to Adrianne Riley in 2011, and together they share two sons, William and Preston. His entry into politics began at a young age, inspired by the legacy of his parents. In 2008, at the age of 27, he was elected to the Texas House, becoming the youngest state representative in Texas history. His tenure has been marked by significant engagement in crucial social issues.

Throughout his legislative career, Moody has sponsored several high-profile bills that revolve around substantial community concerns. For instance, House Bill 5371, aimed at establishing a specialty drug court in El Paso County to address DWI offenses, signifies his commitment to rehab-focused criminal justice approaches rather than punitive measures. The bill reflects a national trend toward implementing alternative legal frameworks that prioritize treatment over incarceration.

Moody has also shown a keen interest in enhancing educational inclusivity through his support of House Bill 45, which seeks to mandate ethnic studies instruction within Texas public schools. This initiative aims to broaden the educational experiences of students by fostering a deeper understanding of diverse cultures, particularly addressing the histories of Mexican American and African American populations.

In addition to his educational focus, he is deeply involved in mental health issues as a member of the Mental Health, Select committee, and through his work on the Criminal Jurisprudence committee, which addresses various aspects of criminal law and public safety. One of the notable bills during his tenure is House Bill 205, which allows convicted individuals to apply for a writ of habeas corpus based on newly available scientific evidence, directly addressing concerns regarding wrongful convictions.

Moody's political leanings demonstrate an emphasis on social justice, criminal reform, and supportive education policies, often aligning him with bipartisan efforts to promote community well-being. However, he retains a particular focus on issues that resonate closely with the needs and values of his constituents in El Paso.

Outside his legislative role, Joe Moody is an accomplished attorney, previously serving as a prosecutor for the El Paso County District Attorney’s Office and currently providing regulatory and compliance advice to West Star Bank. His professional background enhances his legislative focus, particularly in areas involving legal reform and community advocacy.

His commitment to public service extends beyond the legislature, as he frequently engages with local advocacy groups and community organizations in El Paso, reinforcing his dedication to improving the lives of those he represents. Through his work, he has earned respect across various sectors, evidenced by recognition from organizations such as the Texas District and County Attorneys Association and the Mexican American Legislative Caucus.

In conclusion, Joe Moody stands as a prominent figure in Texas politics, advocating for education reform, criminal justice improvement, and mental health support while maintaining a strong connection to his roots in El Paso and a commitment to serving his community.