HOUSTON, Texas – Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth joined KPRC 2 News at 8 a.m. on the KPRC 2+ livestream Thursday to answer voter questions as early voting continues and Election Day, Nov. 4, quickly approaches.
Hudspeth, the county’s chief election official, said she’s touring the county to remind residents that every vote counts and to take advantage of early voting before it ends Friday, Oct. 31.
“Your vote matters. Don’t wait—vote early,” Hudspeth said. “Go to HarrisVotes.com , do your homework, and look up your specific sample ballot.”
What’s on the ballot
Voters will decide on 17 proposed amendments to the Texas Constitution, covering issues such as property taxes, homestead exemptions, schools, and healthcare.
The ballot also includes the race for the 18th Congressional District, which was left vacant following the death of former Houston Mayor and Congressman Sylvester Turner. Hudspeth said 16 candidates are running to fill that seat.
There’s also a special election for Houston City Council At-Large Position 4, along with other local contests in city, school district, utility district, and college trustee elections.
Redistricting and Congressional District 18
Hudspeth clarified that although new district lines have been drawn for Congressional District 18, those changes will not take effect until March 2026.
“If you’ve always voted in District 18, you’ll still vote there this November,” she said. “The new lines won’t apply until the 2026 primary elections, and voters will receive new registration cards at that time.”
When and where to vote
During early voting, 70 vote centers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., except on Sunday, Oct. 26, when hours are noon to 7 p.m. On Election Day, nearly 600 vote centers across Harris County will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Voters can find their nearest location and view sample ballots at HarrisVotes.com.
Voting by mail
Hudspeth reminded voters that Friday is the deadline to apply for a ballot by mail. Those eligible include voters 65 or older, disabled, out of the county on Election Day, college students registered in Harris County but studying elsewhere, and those confined in jail but not convicted.
Applications must be received, not postmarked, by the deadline, Hudspeth emphasized.
Final reminder
Hudspeth encouraged first-time and longtime voters alike to participate early and be informed about what’s on the ballot.
“Do your homework, make your plan to vote, and get your ‘I Voted’ sticker,” she said.