Introduction to the 2025 Election in Harris County
Early voting for the November 4 election has begun in Harris County, with over 10,700 ballots cast in person and more than 3,200 returned by mail on the first day. The early voting period will run until October 31, giving residents ample time to participate. This election is crucial, with various positions and propositions on the ballot that will impact the future of Harris County and its residents.
Statewide Propositions
This November, Texas voters will decide on 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution. More than half of these amendments deal with taxation, while the others address issues such as water infrastructure funding, bail practices, the discipline of state judges, dementia research, parental rights, and voter registration requirements. For detailed information on each amendment, voters can refer to the breakdown provided by the Texas Newsroom and the in-depth analysis of tax-related amendments by Houston Public Media.
Special Election for U.S. Representative, District 18
A special election is being held to fill the U.S. House of Representatives seat left vacant by the late U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner. Turner, the former mayor of Houston, passed away in March at the age of 70, just a few months after being elected to represent the 18th Congressional District. The election, called by Gov. Greg Abbott in April, features 16 candidates, including seven Democrats, five Republicans, three independents, and one Green Party candidate. According to a recent poll by the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs, Democratic candidates Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards are leading the pack. To win, a candidate must receive more than 50% of the vote; otherwise, a runoff election between the top two candidates will occur in February.
Houston City Council Special Election
Residents of Houston will also vote in a special election to fill the vacant at-large position 4 on the Houston City Council. The seat is being left vacant by Letitia Plummer, who is stepping down to run for Harris County judge. There are 15 candidates running for this position, and since it is an at-large seat, all Houston voters can cast a ballot.
City of Baytown Elections
The City of Baytown has several items on the ballot, including elections for city council positions in Districts 1 and 3. Additionally, Baytown residents will vote on six propositions, which include bonds for traffic infrastructure and utility improvements, drainage improvements, improvements to the city’s No. 4 Fire Station, enhancements to the Wetlands Center Education Facility and Arboretum Gardens, and upgrades to the Wayne Gray Sports Complex, the Gene & Loretta Russel Park, and Unidad Park.
City of Bellaire Elections
The City of Bellaire will hold elections for four city-level positions: a mayoral election and elections for city council positions 1, 3, and 5. Notably, the mayoral and position 1 races are uncontested, with Gus E. Pappas running for mayor and Winfred C. Frazier running for position 1.
City of Jersey Village Elections
Jersey Village has three bond propositions on the ballot, focusing on improvements and remodeling for municipal buildings, repairs and renovations to the city’s water, sanitary sewer, and drainage system, and the construction of a municipal pool complex.
City of Missouri City Elections
Missouri City will have a mayoral election and votes for council member at-large positions 1 and 2, giving residents a chance to shape their local leadership.
Local School Board Elections
Several school districts in Harris County are holding trustee elections, including Aldine ISD, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Houston ISD, and Klein ISD. These elections are crucial for determining the direction of local education. Notably, Houston ISD is currently under the control of a state-appointed board of managers and superintendent, but elected trustees will regain power once the Texas Education Agency relinquishes control.
Houston City College Election
Trustee positions for the Houston City College trustees in Districts I and II are up for election, allowing voters to influence the future of higher education in their community.
The Woodlands Township Election
The Woodlands Township will hold director elections for Positions 5, 6, and 7, with Shelley Sekula-Gibbs running unopposed for Position 5.
Utility District Elections
Various utility and water supply districts in Harris County will have elections, including Fresh Water Supply District No. 1A, Municipal Utility Districts 33, 86, 130, 189, 304, and 610, among others. These elections will impact local services and infrastructure.
Conclusion
The 2025 election in Harris County offers residents a significant opportunity to shape their local, state, and federal representation. With a wide range of positions and propositions on the ballot, from the U.S. House of Representatives to local school boards and utility districts, every vote counts. Residents are encouraged to educate themselves on the candidates and issues and to participate in early voting or cast their ballots on Election Day, November 4. By doing so, they will contribute to the democratic process and help determine the future of their communities. Harris County residents can find more information, including a specialized sample ballot based on their address, by visiting the Harris County Clerk’s Office website.
