As ghosts, goblins, and superheroes flood Houston’s streets for Halloween, another kind of spirited participation is lighting up the city — early voting. With a turnout topping 100,000 voters across Harris and Fort Bend Counties, the fusion of democracy and festivity has created a uniquely Houstonian celebration of civic pride and participation.

Early Voting: Where Democracy Meets October Energy

Since opening on Monday, October 20, early voting has transformed polling places into community gathering hubs — and this year’s excitement extends right through Friday, October 31, 7:00 PM. At 70 polling sites across Harris County and 28 across Fort Bend, voters are deciding pivotal races and 17 proposed Texas constitutional amendments.

Among the most-watched contests are:

• Who will complete former Mayor Sylvester Turner’s unexpired congressional term through 2026
• Who will fill Letitia Plummer’s Houston City Council At-Large Position 4 seat through 2027
• Local elections for Cy-Fair ISD, Klein ISD, and city leadership in Bellaire and Missouri City
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Spotlight on the Congressional Showdown

Leading the crowded field of 16 contenders for Turner’s congressional seat is Christian Menefee, who has energized Houston’s Democratic base with endorsements from Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett and Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis. Menefee’s “Souls to the Polls” barbecue event in Acres Homes drew hundreds of early voters — a perfect blend of Southern hospitality and civic engagement.

With more than $1.5 million raised, Menefee’s campaign has dominated the airwaves with television ads and community outreach. His closest challenger, Amanda Edwards, has reported $1.2 million in contributions — proving this race is a political heavyweight bout of ideas and influence.

Meanwhile, State Representative Jolanda Jones, known for her unapologetic advocacy and community leadership, continues to make headlines nationally. With $300,000 raised and a resume spanning Houston City Council, HISD Board, and the Texas Legislature, Jones brings deep experience and local recognition to the race.

With 13 additional candidates, including Isiah Martin, a former aide to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, it’s unlikely any single candidate will reach 50% of the vote on Tuesday, November 4. A January runoff looms, setting the stage for another round of voter enthusiasm.

Council Race: Experience Meets Fresh Energy

In the crowded contest to succeed Letitia Plummer, former District D Council Member Dwight Boykins has emerged as a front-runner. Armed with endorsements from former Mayor Lee Brown, Council Members Willie Davis and Edward Pollard, and community leaders across Houston, Boykins’ campaign blends name recognition with a call for stability and progress.

Facing Boykins are a dynamic slate of challengers, including attorney Alejandra Salinas, a fundraising powerhouse, and Jordan Thomas, former Chief of Staff to both Edwards and Plummer. With 15 total candidates, this race also appears destined for a December 13 runoff — giving Houstonians another chance to shape their city’s direction.

Fort Bend Focus: Missouri City’s Mayor Race Heats Up

Over in Fort Bend County, Missouri City Mayor Robin J. Elackatt faces a spirited challenge from Council Member Jeffrey Boney. The mayoral showdown underscores how suburban leadership is increasingly intertwined with Houston’s broader economic and political ecosystem.

The Heart of Houston Votes

In true Houston fashion, early voting isn’t just about politics — it’s about pride, participation, and the promise of progress. As costumed children chase candy and neighbors share pumpkin-spiced laughs, voters are taking their turn to shape the city’s future.

Democracy in Houston doesn’t just show up in voting booths — it shows up in BBQ lines, in church parking lots, in college campuses, and in every neighborhood where people believe in their power to make a difference.

So, Houston Style Magazine readers before the Halloween festivities come to a close, remember: the sweetest treat this season might just be your VOTE.