Erica Lee Carter has declared her candidacy to complete her late mother's term in the U.S. House of Representatives. Sheila Jackson Lee, who served Texas' 18th Congressional District, passed away on July 19 due to complications from pancreatic cancer. Lee Carter is continuing her mother's commitment to the district by running to serve the rest of the term ending in January.
The announcement, confirmed in a statement shared on Jackson Lee’s Instagram account and brought to light by Click2Houston, came after what Lee Carter described as an outpouring of support and encouragement from the community and Democratic leaders. The late congresswoman, having represented the Houston area for over 30 years, is remembered for her relentless advocacy of justice, equality, and access to healthcare. Lee Carter said, "My Mom was the ultimate finisher. She would stay until the latest hour at her D.C. Congressional office, she supported community events late into the evening, made calls doing the “people’s business” until the wee hours of the morning, closed every important meeting with an ask, solution or next step and never took “No” as a final answer. I cared for her until the end and if the people of the 18th Congressional District entrust me with their vote, then It is my desire to finish the 118th Session in the way that she would have, by supporting justice, equality, healthcare, human rights and economic opportunity for all."
The race to complete Jackson Lee's term is joined by other notable candidates including former Mayor Sylvester Turner, former Houston City Council member Amanda Edwards, and TX Rep. Jarvis Johnson, as they gear up for a varied showdown in the November 5 special election. Jackson Lee's family has endorsed Turner in the race, injecting familiar political energy into the future of the district's representation.
With the filing deadline set for August 22, candidates have a narrowed window to solidify their place on the ballot. Overseeing the coming process and inherent in their duty, the district’s 88 precinct chairs are responsible for selecting a nominee for the general election, a decision being made at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church's Community Life Center, scheduled today at 6 p.m., as reported by the Houston Chronicle.
