In a resounding demonstration of civic engagement and the enduring power of democracy, Harris County voters turned out in force on Election Day to make their voices heard — propelling Christian Menefee and Dwight Boykins into key runoff races that promise to shape the next era of Houston leadership.

The results reflect a renewed energy among voters across Greater Houston, where diversity, progress, and community-centered leadership took center stage.

Christian Menefee Surges Forward in Congressional Race

Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee, already a two-term champion for justice and equality, made a strong showing with 28.89% of the vote in a crowded 16-person special election to succeed the late Congressman Sylvester Turner. Menefee will advance to a runoff against Amanda Edwards, who garnered 25.55%.

Menefee addressed a jubilant crowd Tuesday night:

“I’m fighting for an America where every full-time worker earns a living wage, where healthcare is universal, and where every family — from Acres Homes to Kashmere Gardens, from Homestead to Humble — can thrive. We’re not done yet. We’re just getting started.”

Other contenders included State Rep. Jolanda Jones with 19%, former Miss Venezuela Carmen Montiel at 6.71%, and Isaiah Martin, aide to Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, with 5.7%.

The runoff date, delayed following Turner’s passing, will be announced soon by Gov. Greg Abbott, marking one of the most closely watched races in the state.

Meanwhile, Congressman Al Green, representing District 9 for 22 years, is expected to announce his campaign for the newly redrawn Congressional District 18, which now overlaps much of his current constituency.

Dr. Letitia Plummer and
Dwight Boykins

 

Dwight Boykins Advances in City Council Race

In another competitive contest, former Houston City Council Member Dwight Boykins captured 20.06% of the vote, narrowly trailing Alejandra Salinas, a Rio Grande Valley native and Sussman Godfrey attorney, who led with 21.21%.

The two will head to a Saturday, December 13, 2025, runoff to fill the seat vacated by Dr. Letitia Plummer, who is now running for Harris County Judge.

Boykins, a lifelong Third Ward resident, emphasized the importance of community trust and service:

“Houston is built on resilience, faith, and love for one another. This race isn’t about politics — it’s about people.”

Diversity Wins Across the Region

Progressive momentum continued throughout the region as Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt secured re-election alongside Council Members Sonya Brown Marshall and Lynn Clouser. Sharita Thompson will succeed Jeffrey Boney in District B, continuing Missouri City’s record of inclusive local leadership.

In a landmark outcome, Cy-Fair ISD voters ushered in one of the district’s most diverse and forward-thinking school boards in years. Victories included Dr. Cleveland Lane of Prairie View A&M University, who unseated long-time conservative incumbents Scott Henry and Natalie Blasingame, joined by Lesley Guilmart and Kendra Carmena, who each triumphed over GOP-backed opponents.

At Houston Community College, Trustee Renee Jefferson Patterson earned 49.17% of the vote and advances to a runoff against Kathleen “Kathy” Lynch Gunter to fill the seat previously held by Charlene Johnson, now running for State Representative.

A Celebration of Voter Power

From Harris to Fort Bend County, voter participation surged as citizens embraced their role in shaping the future. Long lines and energized polling sites underscored the strength of Houston’s democracy in action — a reflection of communities determined to build a more inclusive, representative city and region.

As runoff elections and the March 2026 Super Tuesday Primaries approach, Houston Style Magazine applauds every voter who stood in line, every volunteer who helped register neighbors, and every candidate who continues to elevate public service over partisanship.

Democracy thrives when we all show up — and Houston did just that.