HOUSTON – As the race for the 18th congressional district seat continues amid an ongoing redistricting battle, two candidates are stepping aside and endorsing Christian Menefee.
MORE: Lawmakers are debating GOP congressional maps. What does redistricting mean for Texans?
Ebony “Rain” Eatmon and Corisha Rogers stood beside the long-term Harris County Attorney during the formal announcement Thursday morning at Independence Heights Park.
“Today is about unity,” Menefee said. “Rain and Corisha are rising leaders in our community who have fought tirelessly for housing justice, strong schools, and fair wages. Their decision today isn’t about stepping aside—it’s about stepping up for our district. While Republicans in Austin and Washington try to divide us, we are showing what it looks like to come together. Together, we will win this race and deliver for the people of District 18.”
According to the news release, these latest endorsements are expected to demonstrate “strong unity in the face of Republican redistricting efforts.”
Considering how several candidates were initially lined up to represent the district, which has remained unrepresented since March, this could signal a more unified approach in the race. Especially after a recent University of Houston survey showed four candidates deadlocked in their respective bids.
“Christian has proven he is willing to take on the biggest fights,” Rogers said in a statement. “To anyone sitting on the sidelines right now, I want to say: don’t sit this one out. This is your fight too. Your voice, your energy, your organizing power are what will shape the future of this city, this district, and this country.”
“I know how important it is to have intentional leadership—leaders who truly center the community," Eatmon added. “We cannot allow ourselves to be divided while the state government is determined to disenfranchise us, because they know they haven’t done the work to earn our vote. Christian has the record, the resume, and the structure to win this race and deliver for our people. That’s the kind of leadership we need representing District 18.”
Back in April, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called for the special election in November, but was met with criticism by District 18 candidates for the delay. He defended his actions by citing “repeat failures” in Harris County elections, but this was viewed as a copout by opponents.
“Republicans can redraw maps, suppress votes, and play politics with our lives—but they cannot divide us,” Menefee concluded. “Today we send one clear message: you cannot divide Texas’s 18th Congressional District, and we will not be denied.”