HOUSTON — Texas Governor Greg Abbott has attributed a history of election complications in Harris County, the most populous in the state, as the reason for delaying a special election to fill the seat of the late Democratic U.S. Representative Sylvester Turner. Turner passed away a month ago, and the delay has led to political tensions.
Teneshia Hudspeth, the main official overseeing elections in Harris County, where Turner’s district is situated, countered Abbott’s assertions, affirming the county’s readiness to conduct the election to find Turner’s successor. Despite Abbott’s delay, she emphasized that adequate preparations are in place.
Accusations from Democrats suggest Abbott’s postponement aims to aid Republicans in maintaining their slim advantage in the U.S. House. Among those vying for the vacant seat is Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee. Alongside U.S. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Menefee has even hinted at initiating legal action against Abbott for the delay in calling the election.
Turner, who previously served as the mayor of Houston, died on March 5, shortly after commencing his first term in Congress. His district, which covers parts of Houston and Harris County, encompasses almost 800,000 residents.
Governor Abbott has the exclusive power to set a date for the special election. Until recently, his office had only remarked that an announcement would be forthcoming. However, in a recent interview with KXAN in Austin, Abbott highlighted longstanding election issues in Harris County, which boasts a population nearing 5 million, predominantly comprising Latino and Black residents. The county has faced criticisms for lengthy lines, shortages of poll workers and ballots, and uncounted ballots on election day.
In 2023, Abbott signed legislation that reassigned the responsibility of election oversight from Harris County’s elections administrator to local officials, including Hudspeth.
“Harris County has a track record of election failures,” Abbott explained to KXAN, stressing that rushing the election call could result in similar failures. He insisted that adequate time should be given to ensure a fair and accurate election process.
Abbott did not specify a date for the special election but promised an announcement soon.
Responding on Friday, Hudspeth stated that “since the state reinstated election administration duties to my office, my office has successfully conducted eight elections,” underscoring her office’s capability.
On social media platform X, Menefee denounced Abbott’s remarks as unfounded. “Governor, call the election. You’ve had a month. No more excuses,” Menefee urged.