Texas Democrats Pressure Abbott Over Delayed Special Election in Houston District

Governor Greg Abbott has yet to set a date for the 18th Congressional District special election, prompting legal threats and accusations of political stalling.

Governor Greg Abbott has not called a special election to fill the 18th Congressional District seat, vacant since the death of Representative Sylvester Turner in March 2025.
Democratic leaders, including Hakeem Jeffries and Christian Menefee, accuse Abbott of delaying the election to benefit Republicans in the narrowly controlled U.S. House.
Abbott claims the delay is to ensure Harris County can conduct a fair and accurate election but has not provided a specific timeline for announcing the date.
Democratic lawmakers argue the lack of representation for nearly 800,000 residents negatively impacts key issues like immigration, taxes, and veterans' services.
Menefee and Jeffries have threatened legal action to compel Abbott to call the election, warning the district could remain unrepresented until November 2026 if no action is taken.