Overview
- 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.