5 Reasons Wendy Davis is Even More Badass Than You Thought

Wendy Davis became a rock star Tuesday night after standing for 11 hours without going to the bathroom, sitting, or leaning, to block the passage of a bill that would have closed nearly all of Texas's abortion clinics. But this rock star status is long overdue. Here's why. 

1. She Works/Worked Hard For the Money

She's a hard worker. She had two jobs by the time she was 14 to help support her single mother and three siblings. By 19, Wendy was a single mother herself, and once again worked two jobs. 

2. She Gets Awards Like Whoa

She received the "Bold Woman Award" from Girls, Inc., "Freshman of the Year" from AARP, "Champion for Children Award" from the Equity Center, and "Texas Women's Health Champion Award" from the Texas Association of OB-GYNs. In 2009, Texas Monthly named her "Rookie of the Year." And she was chosen by the readers of Fort Worth Weekly as the "Best Servant of the People." Davis was recently listed among "12 State Legislators to Watch in 2012" by Governing Magazine.

3. This Isn't Even Her First Filibuster

She filibustered a bill cutting $4 million from public education. 

4. She Freaks Out Republicans

Texas Republican Bill Zedler had this to tweet about Davis: "We had terrorist in the Texas state senate opposing SB 5." He was so scared, he forgot the indefinite article! 

5. She Did It in Pink Sneakers!

She blocked a draconian anti-abortion bill, stood for 11 hours, and did it all wearing pink sneakers!