Final update 9:57 a.m.: Democrat Donna Howard will return to her Texas House District 48 seat after an Election Day win with 60,265 votes, or 79.38 percent. Libertarian challenger Ben Easton finished with 15,652 votes, or 20.61 percent. District 48 covers Lake Travis, Westlake and portions of south, west and central Austin. Donna Howard leads early Texas House District 48 returns Texas House District 48 incumbent Donna Howard has a commanding lead after early voting returns. The Democrat has 50,742 votes, or 81.34 percent, while Libertarian opponent Ben Easton has 11,638 votes, or 18.70 percent. Results are based on early voting totals and partial reporting of Election Day votes. Howard led her opponent in campaign finance contributions. All votes are unofficial until canvassed. District 48 covers Lake Travis, Westlake and portions of south, west and central Austin.