HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Sheila Jackson Lee was the Democratic nominee for Congress in the 18th district, but following her passing late Friday, July 19, the Democratic Party must now select a replacement.
Jackson Lee defeated Amanda Edwards for the nomination in March and was seeking her 16th term in Congress. With her passing, the Democratic Party needs to choose a new nominee before Aug. 26, when the Texas Secretary of State certifies the nominees for the November general election ballot.
Texas Democratic Party Executive Board Member Odus Evbagharu about the process and Jackson Lee’s legacy.
“We’ve lost an icon and a giant who fought endlessly for civil rights, women’s rights, and for anyone who was part of a disenfranchised or marginalized community,” Evbagharu said. “The Texas Democratic Party and the Harris County Democratic Party will work together with the Democratic Congressional District 18 Committee and their executive team. There will be a presiding judge over a meeting with precinct chairs in Congressional District 18. That meeting will replace the nomination of Sheila Jackson Lee to represent the Democratic Party on November’s ballot.”
Potential candidates will receive nominations from the committee, followed by a vote until a winner is selected.
Evbagharu expects that party leaders may hold the selection meeting before Aug. 19, when the Democratic National Convention begins in Chicago, though no date has been set.
