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Longtime Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee died on July 19. The Houston native represented Texas' 18th Congressional District for nearly 30 years serving portions of Houston, Spring and Humble during her tenure.
Her abrupt absence from Congress left the District 18 seat open for approximately six months for the remainder of her term. Several candidates put in a bid to run as her successor for the temporary period, including Turner, Houston City Council member Letitia Plummer, attorney Amanda Edwards and former running mate Robert Slater.
Turner was chosen to replace Lee following an Aug. 13 vote by the Harris County Democratic Party precinct chair covering District 18.
About the candidates
Turner served Houston as mayor from 2015 to 2024. During his two terms, he helped transform the George R. Brown Convention Center, completed the North Canal flood diversion project, started construction on a new solid waste station and assisted in Hurricane Harvey recovery, according to Turner's state of the city in 2023.
Centonze, won the Republican primary in March against one other candidate and was anticipated to run against the late Sheila Jackson Lee in the November race. Centonze is a federal officer and is campaigning for upgraded infrastructure, a stop to human trafficking, limited terms for government officials and to secure the border.
Check out the Q&A below to learn more about the two candidates running for Texas' 18th Congressional District.
Keep in mind
Candidates were asked to keep responses under 50 words, answer the questions provided and avoid attacking opponents. Answers may have been edited or cut to adhere to those guidelines, or for style and clarity.
For more election coverage, go to communityimpact.com/voter-guide.
Sylvester Turner (D)
Experience:
Attorney, former Mayor of Houston, Texas State Representative for District 139 and Texas House Speaker Pro Tempore
Candidate Website:
https://www.sylvesterturner.com
Contact Information:
(713) 724-2651
Why are you running for election to District 18?
I’ve lived in District 18 all my life. I’ve represented many of its people as mayor and state representative. I have concerns about the uncertainty and chaos Republicans continue to create. I am best positioned to ensure the ball is not dropped on servicing the needs of the entire district.
What do you believe is the most pressing issue facing District 18, and how do you plan to address it?
There are many, including the cost of living. I will work to restore and expand safety net programs, bring family-sustaining jobs to our district, raise the minimum wage, pass paid family and medical leave, make the child tax credit and earned income credit permanent, expand health care and support workers.
How would you address the affordable housing crisis in District 18?
I will work to expand the low-income housing tax credit program to create more affordable housing and bring down rents and provide down payment assistance to first-generation homebuyers. I will also build upon the success of my Complete Communities initiative at the City of Houston to fight gentrification.
How would you prioritize federal and state spending to benefit District 18?
I will prioritize spending on initiatives and programs that increase affordable housing, advance community revitalization, promote environmental equity, protect women and families, expand access to quality, affordable health care, advance criminal justice reform, community safety and expand access to a first-class, affordable public education.
Why do you believe you are the best candidate for this position?
As Houston’s former mayor, a state representative and a private citizen, I have worked closely with the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, United States presidents, cabinet secretaries and federal departments at the highest levels to bring federal resources into the 18th Congressional District and improve the lives of its residents.
Lana Centonze (R)
Experience:
Former Federal officer
Candidate Website:
https://lanacentonzeforcongress.com/
Contact Information:
346-648-0533
Why are you running for election to District 18?
I am running for election to District 18 because I felt the call to step up and make a difference in the community. I am fighting for your children, our grandchildren and great grandchildren. I am not a career politician, but a concerned citizen who wants to make a difference.
What do you believe is the most pressing issue facing District 18, and how do you plan to address it?
The most pressing issues of District 18 are crime, the economy and human trafficking. With crime on the rise, we need to invest in our officers so our community and its residents stay safe. I will give them the tools needed to get the job done…
How would you address the affordable housing crisis in District 18?
Affordable housing is on my agenda for things to be completed in District 18. Many areas in District 18 need building up, it's time to invest and build up the community.
How would you prioritize federal spending to benefit District 18?
I've been visiting different parts of the district to hear what the constituents need. Many expressed that their streets need fixing, not feeling safe because of the amount of crime and need affordable housing and ending human trafficking. My goal is to meet the needs of the constituents of the community.
Why do you believe you are the best candidate for this position?
I believe I am the best candidate because my heart is for the community and building it up. I will focus on crime, educating the community on human trafficking and bringing in more affordable housing. Also, focusing on small businesses to build District 18.
