Voters Decide on Key Races in Houston Runoff Election

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.

U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Concedes Houston Mayor’s Race

Just before 9:30 p.m. Saturday, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee conceded the Houston mayor’s race to state Sen. John Whitmire.

Chris Hollins Defeats Orlando Sanchez for Houston City Controller

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 Win Houston City Council Races

While votes are still being counted, ABC13 is ready to project Carolyn Evans-Shabazz and Mario Castillo have won their races for Houston City Council Districts D and H, respectively.

Other Races on the Ballot

In addition to the Houston City Council races, voters in Bellaire, Baytown, and Pearland will decide on their next mayors and city council representatives.

Low Voter Turnout

Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth noted that only about 11% of eligible voters (or 132,000 people) cast their ballot early. She emphasized that the results of this election will determine the City of Houston’s leadership for the next four years.