Gov. Abbott Sets November 4 Special Election for Texas’ 18th Congressional District

The decision comes after weeks of Democratic pressure and legal threats to address the vacancy left by Rep. Sylvester Turner's death in March.

Gov. Greg Abbott announced November 4, 2025, as the special election date to fill the congressional seat left vacant by Sylvester Turner's death on March 5.
Turner, who succeeded Sheila Jackson Lee earlier this year, represented Texas’ 18th District, a solidly Democratic area in Houston with historical significance.
Democratic lawmakers, including Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, criticized the delay in scheduling the election and threatened legal action against Abbott.
Abbott cited Harris County’s past election management issues, asserting that the November timeline allows adequate preparation for a secure election.
Candidate filings for the special election are due by September 3, with early voting set to begin on October 20.