The race to replace Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is officially headed to runoffs after no candidate secured the required 50% of the vote in Tuesday’s primary election.
With 100% of precincts reporting, both major parties now face extended contests before voters decide who will advance to the November general election.
Democratic Primary: Parker vs. Plummer
On the Democratic side, former Annise Parker came closest to clinching the nomination outright, earning 46.62% of the vote — just shy of the majority threshold.
She will face former Houston City Councilmember Letitia Plummer, who secured 37.29%.
Business owner Matt Salazar, the third Democratic candidate, did not advance.
The Democratic runoff will determine who carries the party’s banner in a county that has trended blue in recent election cycles.
GOP Primary: Tight Battle for Second
The Republican contest remains even more competitive. Former Harris County Treasurer and Houston City Councilmember Orlando Sanchez finished first with 26.46% of the vote but failed to reach 50%, triggering a runoff.
Less than 1,000 votes separate second and third place. Business owner and Air Force veteran Warren A. Howell captured 20.79%, while Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association President Marty Lancton followed closely with 20.57%.
The final runoff matchup on the Republican side will be confirmed after vote totals are finalized.
Other GOP candidates included Aliza Dutt and Spring Branch entrepreneur George Harry Zoes.
What’s Next?
Both party runoffs are scheduled for May 26. The winners will face off in November to succeed Hidalgo, who opted not to seek a third term.
With Harris County serving as the nation’s third-largest county, the outcome of this race could significantly shape local policy on infrastructure, public safety, and disaster response for years to come.
For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.