The Choice for District 18: Sylvester Turner
The decision has been made. The precinct chairs from District 18 have spoken. Sylvester Turner, Houston’s former mayor, has been chosen as the Democratic candidate to appear on the Nov. 5 ballot. The goal? To uphold the legacy of the historic U.S. Congress 18th Congressional District seat previously held by icons such as Barbara Jordan, George “Mickey” Leland, Craig Washington, and Sheila Jackson Lee.
With Jackson Lee’s passing on July 19, speculation arose over who would succeed her in representing District 18. A number of individuals threw their hats in the ring, including Amanda Edwards, Jarvis Johnson, Christina Morales, Letitia Plummer, Robert Slater, Corisha Rogers, and Cortlan Wickliff.
On Aug. 13, the District 18 precinct judges gathered at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church to cast their votes. Turner emerged victorious after a run-off with Edwards, the top two candidates from the initial voting round.
The final count: Turner 42, Edwards 37.
The precinct chairs were relieved but proud of their significant decision.
Monique Jackson, Precinct Chair 960, reflected on the intense election process, noting the excitement and tension that filled the air.
Ultimately, Jackson believed she made the right choice in electing Turner, but was also impressed by Edwards’ performance.
Days before the precinct chairs’ vote, a District 18 Candidates Forum was held, offering insight into the candidates and their platforms.
Now, the stage is set for Turner to face Republican Lana Centonze on Nov. 5 in a bid to represent Texas’s District 18 in Washington D.C.
However, there is also a Special Election to fill the interim seat until Jan. 3, 2025. Erica Lee Carter, daughter of Jackson Lee, has announced her candidacy for this seat, following in her mother’s footsteps.
Whether it is Lee Carter or another candidate who secures the interim seat, their term will pave the way for Turner should he win in November. Turner, an experienced politician with decades of public service under his belt, has pledged to serve as a “bridge candidate,” mentoring the next generation of leaders.
The future of District 18 hangs in the balance, with Turner’s election potentially marking a new chapter in the district’s rich political history.
Stay tuned for updates as the Nov. 5 election draws closer!