Early voting begins today, Monday across Harris County, giving Houston-area residents the chance to cast ballots ahead of the Nov. 4 general election, which includes a congressional special election, city council race, and a slate of statewide constitutional amendments.
Early voting runs Oct. 20 through Oct. 31, with most polling sites open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voters can cast their ballots at any early voting location within Harris County, regardless of precinct, and are required to bring a valid photo ID.
At the top of the ballot, voters in Texas’s 18th Congressional District will choose a new representative to fill the vacancy left by former congressman and Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.
Texans statewide will also consider 17 proposed amendments to the state constitution, addressing issues ranging from criminal justice and education funding to veterans’ benefits and health research.
Among the measures:
- Proposition 3 would allow judges to deny bail to defendants charged with certain violent felony offenses.
- Proposition 5 seeks to increase state funding for school safety and security improvements.
- Proposition 8 would expand property tax exemptions for disabled veterans and surviving spouses.
- Proposition 14 proposes the creation of a Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas focused on early detection and treatment.
Locally, Houston voters will also decide a special election for City Council At-Large Position 4, along with several school board and community college trustee races across the region.
Officials encourage voters to review their sample ballots and check polling locations at HarrisVotes.com before heading to the polls.
“Early voting gives residents the flexibility to vote when and where it’s most convenient,” said Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth in a recent statement. “It’s one of the best ways to ensure your voice is heard.”
Early voting ends Friday, Oct. 31. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.
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