As an expert in Texas politics, I have been closely following the political news in Harris County, Texas. This county is a hotbed of political activity, with a diverse population and a history of close elections. As the most populous county in Texas and the third most populous county in the United States, Harris County plays a crucial role in state and national politics. With the 2020 election just around the corner, there are several political news stories that are making headlines in Harris County right now.
The Race for Harris County Judge
One of the most closely watched races in Harris County is the race for Harris County Judge.The current judge, Lina Hidalgo, made history in 2018 when she became the first woman and first Latina to be elected as Harris County Judge. Hidalgo has been a vocal advocate for progressive policies and has faced criticism from conservatives for her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her opponent in the upcoming election is Republican candidate Joe Danna, a retired Houston Police Department sergeant. Danna has criticized Hidalgo's response to the pandemic and has promised to focus on public safety and fiscal responsibility if elected. This race has garnered national attention as it is seen as a test of the Democratic Party's strength in Texas. If Hidalgo is re-elected, it could signal a shift towards more progressive policies in the state.
On the other hand, if Danna wins, it could be seen as a victory for conservative values.
The Fight for Texas House District 138
Another closely watched race in Harris County is the race for Texas House District 138. Incumbent Democrat Akilah Bacy is facing off against Republican Lacey Hull for this seat, which covers parts of Houston and Katy. Bacy, a former prosecutor, is running on a platform of criminal justice reform and expanding access to healthcare. Hull, a small business owner, is focusing on issues such as property taxes and education. This race is significant because Democrats are hoping to flip the Texas House of Representatives in the upcoming election. If Bacy wins, it could help Democrats gain control of the House for the first time in nearly two decades.The Battle for Harris County Sheriff
The race for Harris County Sheriff is also heating up, with incumbent Democrat Ed Gonzalez facing off against Republican challenger Joe Danna.Gonzalez, who has been in office since 2017, has focused on criminal justice reform and reducing the county's jail population. Danna, a retired Houston Police Department sergeant, has criticized Gonzalez's handling of the county jail and has promised to prioritize public safety if elected. This race has been contentious, with both candidates trading barbs and accusations. It is seen as a test of the county's stance on criminal justice reform and law enforcement.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Harris County Politics
Like the rest of the country, Harris County has been grappling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The county has seen a surge in cases and deaths, leading to strict measures being put in place to slow the spread of the virus. This has had a significant impact on political news in Harris County, with many candidates having to shift their campaigns online and adapt to virtual events. The pandemic has also highlighted issues such as healthcare and economic inequality, which have become major talking points in political races. In addition, there have been debates over how to handle voting during a pandemic.Harris County has expanded access to mail-in voting, which has been met with resistance from some Republicans who claim it could lead to voter fraud.
The Fight for the Texas Senate
While Harris County is primarily known for its role in state and national politics, there are also several important local races taking place. One of these is the race for Texas Senate District 13, which covers parts of Harris County and Fort Bend County. Incumbent Democrat Borris Miles is facing a challenge from Republican Milinda Morris for this seat. Miles, who has been in office since 2017, has focused on issues such as criminal justice reform and healthcare. Morris, a small business owner, is running on a platform of fiscal responsibility and job creation. This race is significant because Democrats are hoping to gain control of the Texas Senate in the upcoming election.If Miles is re-elected, it could help Democrats achieve this goal.
