Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, who has not confirmed if she'll run for a third term, witnessed an unusual surge in her campaign funds. This leap from $41,300 in January to over $600,000 by the end of June was reported, but the swell predominantly came from refunds for legal services rather than direct donations. Of the funds received in this period, a hefty refund of nearly $601,000 from the Houston-based law firm Gerger Hennessy Martin & Peterson LLP made up the bulk, according to Houston Public Media.
While Harris County awaits details on Judge Hidalgo's proposed penny tax hike for child care, meant to sustain the Early REACH program initially funded by federal COVID-19 relief dollars, the talk is more about the tax increase rather than the funds on hand. Commissioner Tom Ramsey informed ABC13, in his own words, of receiving the news through their report and not from direct communication: "When you called just a little while ago, that's when we heard about the program." Critics, including policy fellows like Bill King from the Baker Institute at Rice, call into question the timing of the tax proposal, pointing out that tax discussions are typically reserved for the budget cycle, which is due in October. The penny tax is expected to raise $60 million, costing homeowners an additional $10 per year per $100,000 of home assessment to maintain the child care initiative, as reported by ABC13.
On the other side of county politics, other figures are making noise too. Annise Parker and Letitia Plummer, both Democrats, have declared their intentions to run for county judge. Republican hopeful Aliza Dutt, Mayor of Piney Point, has reported over $246,000 in hand, though also carrying outstanding loans. Of note is how donors from Houston-area construction companies made significant contributions to her campaign, which adds a dynamic to the upcoming election that emphasizes the strong ties candidates form with local industries.
Hidalgo’s political plans remain unclear, but her recent fundraising boost adds to the speculation about her future. It’s uncertain whether her strong campaign funds and proposed tax hike will influence a possible third-term run or public opinion. With her proposals set for court in August and a campaign finance deadline in January, Harris County’s political scene remains busy, with many closely watching her next moves.
