HOUSTON, TX — Democracy is about to clock in for another Texas-sized election, and this time, the stakes stretch from neighborhood streets to the halls of Congress. Beginning Monday, October 19, 2026, at 7 a.m., millions of Texans can begin casting early ballots in the November 3 general election, determining who will represent them in Washington, Austin and local government.

From the Red River to the Rio Grande, from the Sabine River to Big Bend, one message deserves to ring louder than campaign commercials: Your vote is your voice, and democracy works best when everyone participates.

Early Voting: Mark Your Calendar

Harris County voters may cast early ballots October 19–30, with polling locations operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, except Sunday, October 25, when hours are noon to 7 p.m.

Neighboring Fort Bend County follows the same dates, with Sunday voting from noon to 6 p.m.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, when polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Voters can locate polling centers, review sample ballots and obtain election information through www.HarrisVotes.com or www.VoteTexas.gov.

Texas Senate Race Could Make History

One of America's most closely watched contests pits Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton against Democratic State Representative James Talarico for the U.S. Senate seat held by John Cornyn since 2003.

After defeating Cornyn in the Republican runoff, Paxton faces Talarico in a contest drawing extraordinary national attention. Recent polling suggests a competitive race, although surveys differ.

A Talarico victory would make him Texas' first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate since Lloyd Bentsen's 1988 reelection.

Houston Congressional Seats in the Spotlight

Texas' 38 congressional districts also face voters, with every U.S. House seat carrying a two-year term.

Houston-area incumbents including Lizzie Fletcher, Sylvia Garcia, Christian Menefee and Randy Weber are among the prominent congressional figures in this election cycle. Open seats and changing district boundaries add significance to an already consequential election.

Governor's Race Heats Up

Republican Governor Greg Abbott, seeking a fourth four-year term, faces Democratic State Representative Gina Hinojosa in a closely watched contest.

Hinojosa's candidacy has energized discussion about education, healthcare, affordability and Texas' future. Recent polls show a competitive race, with some placing Hinojosa ahead and others favoring Abbott.

Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick also faces Democratic State Representative Vikki Goodwin.

Remember: No Straight-Ticket Voting

Texas eliminated straight-party voting effective in 2020. Voters must now select candidates individually rather than using a single selection for an entire party.

 Burt Levine

Houston Style Magazine encourages every eligible voter to research the candidates, review every ballot choice and make their voice heard.

Because Texas' future will not be written by campaign slogans alone.

It will be written by voters.

VOTE EARLY: OCTOBER 19–30 | ELECTION DAY: NOVEMBER 3

Official Voter Information: www.HarrisVotes.com