Connecting Constituents in a Rapidly Evolving Media Landscape
This week, we spoke to Karime Ramos, Digital Manager for the Office of Representative Sylvia Garcia.
Can you tell me about your career path that you’ve taken that’s led you to your current role as Digital Manager?
I’ve always been passionate about public service and community engagement. While I was in school, I volunteered on statewide campaigns, but because I graduated early from Texas A&M, I didn’t have the opportunity to complete a Hill internship. When I began my career as a District Staff Assistant, I had to learn everything about Congress on the job, which was both overwhelming and incredibly exciting.
When I transitioned from Staff Assistant to Communications Assistant, I took a less traditional path by choosing to remain in the district. I made that decision because I believe the most effective way to ensure a Member’s voice reflects their constituents is to be in the community every day. I’ve joined the Member at senior centers, attended meetings at food banks and community health centers, and built relationships across the district. That on-the-ground experience allows me to approach communications, whether it’s 499s or targeted robocalls, with a real understanding of the neighborhoods and people we’re serving.
Now, as Digital Manager, I’m excited to play a larger role in shaping overall communications strategy. Digital is central to how a Member connects with their constituents today. It’s not just about posting on social media; it’s about managing telephone town halls, building relationships with content creators, and finding new ways to engage people where they are. I’m especially interested in how digital media continues to evolve and how we can use it to strengthen community connections.
I also want to give a shout-out and recognize that my growth wouldn’t have been possible without strong mentorship. When I first started, I had never lived in Houston, and I didn’t know the local elected officials or even which highway was which. Our Chief of Staff has supported me every step of the way, from when he was District Director to now in his current role, consistently advocating for my growth and development.
Which specific policy areas or legislative issues are you most passionate about, and how do you stay informed and engaged in those areas?
Growing up in Laredo, Texas, I saw firsthand how immigration crackdowns affect a community. I remember a tent detention center going up next to a local mall, and watching young families being deported, crossing the bridge on foot. Those experiences deeply impacted me and continue to shape the issues I’m passionate about today.
To stay informed, I prioritize staying connected to the communities in the district. I regularly read local outlets like the Houston Chronicle and engage with local journalists on social media to track the important stories that don’t always make national headlines.
I also recognize that new-media relationships are important, not just for social media engagement, but for staying connected to the stories unfolding across the district. I’ve developed relationships with trusted content creators in our district, like Carlos Eduardo Espina, who regularly collaborates with our office to elevate critical immigration issues.
Describe a challenging or rewarding project that significantly influenced your growth as a professional. How did you handle the challenge, and what did you learn from the experience?
One of the most challenging, and ultimately rewarding, parts of working in digital communications has been learning to let go of perfectionism. Early on, I wanted every photo, graphic, and tweet to feel cohesive on the feed and be pre-planned on my content calendar. I quickly learned that this approach isn’t always realistic, especially on the Hill.
Working in a fast-paced communications environment means constantly adapting to breaking news and real-time demands. Plans can change within minutes, and messaging often requires input and edits from multiple stakeholders. To navigate this, I focused on staying flexible. Instead of trying to control every detail, I learned to prioritize the bigger picture, ensuring that our messaging was timely, accurate, and aligned with the member’s voice, even if it meant adjusting my original vision.
The biggest lesson I’ve taken from this experience is how to adapt and let go. Not every post will be perfect, and that’s okay. One unexpected or less polished moment doesn’t undo the broader strategy or the work that goes into every graphic or edited video. This experience has made me more collaborative and effective as a communicator.
What advice would you give to individuals who aspire to work for a Member of Congress?
My biggest piece of advice is to lean into your network. I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without the support of the Texas A&M Former Students community. Before graduating, I made an effort to connect with and schedule meetings with Aggies working in Democratic offices on the Hill. Those conversations gave me invaluable insight into both the day-to-day realities of the job and how to navigate the often challenging hiring process. Taking that initiative made a real difference, and it’s why I was able to start my career as a Staff Assistant in my current office.
Whichever community or network you identify with, whether it’s your university, hometown, or professional affiliations, invest in those relationships. Be proactive, follow up, and always send a thank-you message when someone takes the time to help you (that small gesture goes a long way).
People are often more willing to support you than you think! You just have to put yourself out there, stay engaged, and continue building on the connections you make.
Word association, what is the first word that comes to mind for each of these?
Policy – People
Networking – Community
Writing Skills – Time Management
Working on the Hill – Motivating
Leadership Connect – Informative
