In a bold move rooted in democratic principles and public accountability, Christian Menefee, candidate for Texas’s 18th Congressional District and the current Harris County Attorney, is demanding answers from Governor Greg Abbott over his continued delay in scheduling a special election to fill the seat vacated on March 5, 2025.

With nearly 800,000 residents in the heart of Houston left without federal representation for over a month, Menefee has taken decisive action by filing a Public Information Act (PIA) request. The request seeks detailed records and communications from the Governor’s office regarding the holdup—an inaction Menefee decries as “unacceptable and undemocratic.”

“Budgets, disaster relief, healthcare, and Social Security are being debated in Washington—yet the voices of the 18th District are silent,” said Menefee. “The Governor’s refusal to act undermines the very foundation of our democracy.”

A Growing Demand for Accountability

Joining Menefee in the PIA filing were 13 residents from the district, including lifelong Houstonian Arva Howard, who voiced concern that this delay is more about political maneuvering than procedural logistics.

“Every day we go unheard in Congress is a day we fall behind,” Howard said. “Governor Abbott’s silence is political—plain and simple. We deserve better. We deserve a voice now.”

The issue is especially pressing as Houston approaches hurricane season, with the city still recovering from the lasting effects of Harvey, Imelda, and Beryl. In 2022, Governor Abbott acknowledged the critical importance of timely representation in Congress when he expedited a special election for TX-34, citing the need for strong federal coordination during storm season.

“Texans in disaster-prone regions need effective representation as soon as possible,” Abbott wrote at the time.

Menefee is now calling on the Governor to apply that same urgency to Houston’s TX-18.

“Our community has endured some of the nation’s most catastrophic natural disasters,” said Menefee. “It is both dangerous and disrespectful to deny us a seat at the federal table as we prepare for what may come next.”

Transparency as a First Step Toward Trust

The PIA request seeks all internal and external communications concerning the TX-18 vacancy, including those with federal agencies, legal advisors, and political stakeholders. Menefee argues that transparency is not optional—it is required by law.

“Texas law is clear—the Governor must call a special election ‘as soon as practicable.’ The people of TX-18 are tired of waiting. We deserve full transparency about why that hasn’t happened and when it will.”

A review of past elections called by Governor Abbott reveals a pattern of varied timelines, but the delay for TX-18 already surpasses several historical precedents.

What’s at Stake for Houston

Beyond the political implications, this delay hits at the heart of Houston’s identity—a city defined by resilience, diversity, and action. For a district that has long been a leader in civil rights, economic development, and disaster preparedness, representation isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.

As the 2024 election cycle gains momentum, Houston Style Magazine will continue to follow this story closely, advocating for civic engagement and transparency at every level.

📍 Stay informed. Stay involved. Your voice matters—especially when others try to silence it.