Higher Heights for America PAC, a national organization focused on increasing Black women’s political representation, has reaffirmed its endorsement of Amanda Edwards in the upcoming Special Election for Texas’s 18th Congressional District. The group had previously endorsed Edwards during the Democratic primary and is maintaining its support as voters prepare to select a successor to the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee.

Higher Heights PAC, founded in 2011, is the country’s only political action committee exclusively dedicated to electing progressive Black women at all levels of government. According to Federal Election Commission records, the PAC has backed dozens of candidates in competitive races nationwide, with an emphasis on down-ballot and congressional contests.

"Amanda Edwards has always exemplified the kind of servant leadership we need more of in Washington," said Glynda C. Carr, President and CEO of Higher Heights. “Her deep roots in the community, her experience in local and national public service, and her proven commitment to delivering results make her our choice to represent the people of TX-18.”

Edwards, a former at-large Houston City Council member and municipal finance attorney, has also served on national boards and worked as a fellow for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. She previously ran for U.S. Senate in 2020.

In a statement responding to the renewed endorsement, Edwards said, “I’m honored to have the continued support of Higher Heights PAC as we work to carry forward a legacy of leadership in the 18th Congressional District, which has been represented by powerful leaders such as the late Barbara Jordan and the late Sheila Jackson Lee.”

The 18th District, based in Houston, is historically significant. It was first represented by Jordan, the first Southern Black woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, in 1973. Jackson Lee succeeded her in 1995 and held the seat until 2024, when she left Congress to run for mayor of Houston. Jackson Lee passed away in early 2025, prompting the special election.

In recent weeks, Edwards’ campaign has also garnered new local endorsements. Among them is Allison Leland, widow of the late Congressman Mickey Leland, a respected figure in Houston’s political and humanitarian circles. The Greater Heights Democratic Club, a progressive-leaning political organization active in Harris County, also formally announced its support.

The special election date has not yet been officially set, but political observers expect it to draw significant attention, both for its historic implications and the deep field of potential candidates. Edwards is currently among the highest-profile contenders.

Higher Heights’ continued support adds national weight to Edwards’ campaign and signals confidence in her ability to maintain the district’s tradition of Black women leadership in Congress.