Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker is leading the Democratic field in the race for Harris County Judge, according to a recent poll conducted by Lake Research Partners. The survey of likely Democratic voters shows Parker with 53% support, compared to 15% for her nearest opponent, with 20% of voters still undecided.

Parker's campaign focuses on public education, affordable housing, flood mitigation, and equitable healthcare. She has also emphasized a commitment to countering what she describes as extreme Republican policies at the state and federal levels.

In addition to Parker, other Democratic candidates include Letitia Plummer. On the Republican side, the field includes Piney Point Village Mayor Aliza Dutt, businessman Warren Howell, and former Harris County deputy sheriff Oscar Gonzales. 

The University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs also conducted a poll in July 2025, surveying 2,300 registered voters. This poll found that while Parker had the highest net favorability among potential candidates at 8%, she trailed incumbent Judge Lina Hidalgo among Democratic voters, who favored Hidalgo with a 49% net favorability rating. Hidalgo announced in September 2025 that she would not seek re-election in 2026, opening the field for new candidates.

The Democratic primary is scheduled for March 3, 2026, with the general election to follow on November 3, 2026. Voter interest is high, with concerns over crime, infrastructure, and county governance shaping the early stages of the campaign.