Houston is heading back to the polls on Saturday, as voters decide who will take over the City Council's At-Large Position 4 seat in a special runoff. Attorney Alejandra Salinas and former council member Dwight Boykins are squaring off one-on-one after emerging from a crowded November field, with the final result likely coming down to which side can actually get its supporters to show up.
Election basics
According to the City of Houston's official election notice, the runoff is scheduled for Saturday to fill the unexpired At-Large Position 4 term, which expires on January 1, 2028. Early voting took place from December 1 to 9. The notice lists Salinas and Boykins as the two runoff candidates, along with contact and voting information for residents. For specific polling locations and ballot details, the city directs voters to county election websites. City of Houston
Who’s on the ballot
Salinas and Boykins advanced to the runoff after finishing first and second in the November 4 election, with Salinas holding a slim edge in Harris County totals. The seat became vacant earlier this year when Councilmember Letitia Plummer resigned to run for Harris County judge. The Chronicle reports that Salinas has collected labor and local endorsements, while Boykins is leaning on his previous council tenure and broad name recognition. Houston Chronicle
What the candidates are saying
FOX 26 political reporter Greg Groogan caught up with both candidates this week as they worked the city, and his interviews spotlight their contrasts on housing, public safety, and jobs. In the station's coverage, Salinas emphasizes affordability and inclusivity as her priorities, while Boykins highlights his experience and record in public service. Local TV cameras have been following them into neighborhoods across Houston as they make their final pitch before Saturday. FOX 26 Houston
How and where to vote
The Harris County elections website lists early vote center hours, noting that early voting runs from December 1 through 9, and that vote centers will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day this Saturday. Voters can use the county's "What’s On My Ballot?" tool to see contests and sample ballots for their address, and any eligible voter in Harris County can cast a ballot at any vote center. If you are heading to the polls in person, be sure to confirm your polling location and bring an approved photo ID. Harris County Elections
Why turnout matters
Runoff elections usually attract far fewer voters than the November contests, which means a smaller but well-organized turnout operation can carry the day. Local coverage has underscored how early voting trends and neighborhood organizing could tilt a close, citywide race like this one. A recent roundup breaks down the early-vote numbers and what a relatively small electorate might mean for future City Hall decisions. Runoff elections draw low turnout
Campaign flashpoints
The campaign heated up this week after the Houston Chronicle and other outlets resurfaced remarks Boykins made at past events, triggering a round of critical mail pieces and sharp responses from both camps. Boykins' team has called the mailers misleading and urged voters to concentrate on his experience. Salinas' campaign has framed the dust-up as part of a broader push for accountability. With a smaller voter pool in a runoff, these flashpoints could loom larger than they might in a high-turnout election. Houston Chronicle
Officials are expected to post final canvass results after the provisional and mail ballots are processed, so late returns are likely. The winner will be sworn in to serve out the remainder of the term and will take a seat on council as it heads into next year's policy calendar.
