Runoffs Set in Key Texas Races for Congress and State Senate

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Two of Texas' most closely watched special elections are heading to runoffs after no candidate secured a majority of votes in this week's elections.

Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee and Former Houston City Councilmember Amanda Edwards advanced to a runoff in the race to fill the late U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner's congressional seat in District 18.

With all polling locations reporting, Menefee led the 16-candidate field with roughly 28% of the vote, followed by Edwards at 25.5%. Both of the candidates are Democrats, ensuring that the Houston-based 18th Congressional District will remain under Democratic control.

Neither candidate came close to the 50% threshold required to avoid a runoff. State Representative Jolanda Jones (D) finished third with about 19% of the vote.

The runoff will take place early next year, meaning the seat will remain unfilled for several more months. The winner will only serve through the end of 2026, as the seat is up for reelection next year.

Whoever emerges victorious will slightly narrow Republican's majority in the U.S. House, which currently stands at 219-213.

In North Texas, Democrat Taylor Rehmet and Republican Leigh Wambsganss are headed to a runoff to fill the State Senate District 9 seat, which was vacated by Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock.

Rehmet led the field with 47.6% of the vote while Wambsganss recieved 36%. Former Southlake Mayor John Huffman, also a Republican, finished third with 16%.

Despite Rehmet's first-place finish, the combined Republican vote outdid his total, suggesting Wambsganss could consolidate GOP support in the future runoff. Wambsganss has recieved backing from top Texas Republicans including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.

The district, which includes Fort Worth's northern suburbs, has historically leaned Republican and voted for Donald Trump by 17 points in 2024.

With no candidate receiving a majority of the vote in either of the special elections, it's unknown who will fill the vacant seats in early 2026.

Raeylee Barefield

Raeylee Barefield is a student at the University of Texas at Austin pursuing a degree in Government. She enjoys reading, writing, and cooking in her spare time.