Texas Governor Sets November Special Election for Vacant Congressional Seat

Gov. Greg Abbott's decision leaves Texas' 18th District unrepresented for nearly eight months, drawing legal threats and accusations of partisan delay from Democrats.

Gov. Greg Abbott announced November 4, 2025, as the special election date to fill the seat left vacant by Rep. Sylvester Turner's death on March 5.
Democratic leaders, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, have accused Abbott of delaying the election to protect the GOP's slim 220-213 House majority.
Abbott justified the delay by citing Harris County's history of election management issues, claiming more time is needed for a secure election process.
The vacancy leaves nearly 800,000 constituents in the predominantly Black and Hispanic district without representation during critical legislative battles in Congress.
Democrats, including candidate Christian Menefee, have threatened legal action, arguing the delay disenfranchises voters and undermines democratic representation.

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