Texas – Governor Greg Abbott has issued a proclamation setting Tuesday, November 4, 2025, as the date for a special election to fill the 18th Congressional District seat, which was vacated following the death of Congressman Sylvester Turner.
In his statement, Governor Abbott criticized Harris County’s handling of elections, stating, “No county in Texas does a worse job of conducting elections than Harris County.
They repeatedly fail to conduct elections consistent with state law.”
He emphasized the importance of secure and well-conducted elections, stating that rushing the special election would be detrimental to the interests of voters.
Abbott argued that holding the election in November would provide Harris County the necessary time to prepare properly.
Candidates wishing to be placed on the ballot must submit their applications to the Secretary of State by 5:00 PM on September 3, 2025.
Early voting for the special election will commence on Monday, October 20, 2025.