HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Voters across the Houston area were given one last chance Saturday to decide on several key races, including who will become the city’s next mayor.
More than 68,000 Harris County voters showed up to cast their ballots during the final 12 hours of the December runoff, according to the elections department.
Just before 9:30 p.m. Saturday, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee conceded the Houston mayor’s race to state Sen. John Whitmire.
In the race for Houston city controller, 37-year-old former Harris County clerk Chris Hollins defeated rival Orlando Sanchez, who served three terms as Harris County treasurer.
Carolyn Evans-Shabazz and Mario Castillo have won their races for Houston City Council Districts D and H, respectively.
In all, there were seven Houston City Council races to be decided, but there was more than just Bayou City offices on the ballot.
In Bellaire, voters elected Gus Pappas as the city’s next mayor. Pearland voters elected Mona Chavarria to city council.
“Yes, it’s Saturday. Everyone is thinking about the holidays, shopping, and ordering gifts. But we want to remind you that this is one of our most important elections,” Hudspeth said.
