Harris County, Texas, January 24, 2026
Harris County has announced the closure of early voting centers for the Texas 18th Congressional District Runoff election on January 25, 2026. The decision to adjust the voting hours comes in response to anticipated hazardous winter weather conditions, prioritizing the safety of voters and election workers. Early voting will remain open from January 21 to January 27, with extended hours on all other days. Election Day is set for January 31, where candidates Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards will compete for the vacant seat.
Harris County Adjusts Early Voting Hours for 18th Congressional District Runoff Due to Winter Storm
Harris County, Texas – Early voting centers for the Texas 18th Congressional District Runoff election will be closed on Sunday, January 25, 2026, due to anticipated hazardous winter weather conditions. This adjustment has been announced to ensure the safety of both voters and election workers.
The closure affects the ongoing early voting period for the special runoff election, which began on January 21, 2026, and is scheduled to conclude on January 27, 2026. Originally, polls were slated to be open on Sunday, January 25, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. For other days within the early voting period, from January 21-24, 2026, and January 26-27, 2026, the early voting centers are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Election Day for the runoff is set for Saturday, January 31, 2026, when voting centers will operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The special runoff election is being held to fill the vacant seat for Texas’s 18th Congressional District. The position became open following the passing of former Representative Sylvester Turner in March 2025. This district serves more than 800,000 residents. The candidates vying for the seat in the runoff are Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards. Voters residing within the old boundaries of Congressional District 18 are participating in this election. Additional information regarding polling locations and voter eligibility can be found on HarrisVotes.com.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the latest news regarding early voting in Harris County?
Harris County has announced the closure of early voting centers for the Texas 18th Congressional District Runoff on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Why are early voting hours being adjusted?
The early voting hours are being adjusted due to anticipated hazardous winter weather conditions.
Which election is affected by these changes?
These changes affect the Texas 18th Congressional District Runoff election.
When is early voting taking place for this election?
The early voting period is from January 21, 2026, to January 27, 2026.
What are the standard early voting hours for other days?
On days other than Sunday, January 25, early voting centers are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
When is Election Day for the runoff?
Election Day for the runoff is scheduled for Saturday, January 31, 2026.
Who are the candidates in the runoff election?
The candidates in the runoff election are Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards.
Why is there a special election for the 18th Congressional District?
The special election is to fill the vacant seat for Texas’s 18th Congressional District, which became open after the passing of former Representative Sylvester Turner in March 2025.
Key Features of the Texas 18th Congressional District Runoff Early Voting Adjustment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location of Adjustment | Harris County, Texas |
| Election Affected | Texas 18th Congressional District Runoff Election |
| Specific Adjustment | Early voting centers closed on Sunday, January 25, 2026 |
| Reason for Adjustment | Anticipated hazardous winter weather conditions |
| Early Voting Period | January 21, 2026 – January 27, 2026 |
| Original Sunday Hours (Jan 25) | 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. (now closed) |
| Standard Early Voting Hours (Other Days) | 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| Election Day | Saturday, January 31, 2026 |
| Candidates in Runoff | Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards |
| Reason for Special Election | To fill vacant seat after passing of Representative Sylvester Turner in March 2025 |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
