Sylvester Turner to Replace Sheila Jackson Lee on November Ballot

Election officials in Texas convened on Tuesday to select former Houston mayor Sylvester Turner as the Democratic nominee for the 18th Congressional District, following the death of Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee from pancreatic cancer on July 19. Turner narrowly defeated former city council member Amanda Edwards in a two-round voting process held at Wheeler Baptist Church in Houston. In the first round, Turner received 35 votes to Edwards' 34, prompting a runoff where he secured victory with 41 votes against Edwards' 37. Turner, who previously served in the Texas House of Representatives and as Houston's mayor, emphasized his commitment to issues such as education, healthcare, climate change, and affordable housing during his campaign. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to honor Jackson Lee's legacy, stating, “No one can replace the Congresswoman, but I will work hard every day to honor, perpetuate, and build on her amazing legacy.” The upcoming general election on November 5 will also feature a special election to fill Jackson Lee's remaining term in the 118th Congress, which expires on January 3, 2025. Erica Lee Carter, Jackson Lee's daughter, has announced her candidacy for this special election. Meanwhile, Turner is expected to face Republican Lana Centonze in the general election, with the race being rated as “solid Democratic” by the Cook Political Report, indicating a strong likelihood of a Democratic victory.