In a special election, Christian Menefee, a Democrat and Harris County Attorney, secured the seat vacated by the late Sylvester Turner. The win sets the stage for a competitive primary. The election followed a drawn-out process after Turner's death in March 2025. Amanda Edwards, a former Houston City Council member, was also in the race.

The victory provides a significant boost for Menefee's campaign. Both Menefee and Edwards will compete in the March primary for the newly redrawn 18th Congressional District against Al Green. The winner of the primary is expected to win the full two-year term in November. The primary highlights generational shifts within the Democratic Party.

This race reflects a broader national trend. Younger Democrats are challenging established figures. The district has been without consistent representation since Sheila Jackson Lee's death in 2024. Early voting for the primary begins in two weeks. Green's current district was impacted by Texas GOP redistricting, prompting his entry into the new district race.