You Decide - Houston's Mayor - List of candidates
HOUSTON - The 2023 Houston mayoral race has become a major topic in local politics. The current mayor, Sylvester Turner, is term-limited and cannot seek re-election, leaving the race wide open. Several candidates have announced their candidacy, including Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, State Senator John Whitmire, Current City Councilmember Robert Gallegos, and several others.
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Here is a breakdown of the candidates.
Robert Gallegos: The current Houston City Council member is seeking to become the city's next mayor. Gallegos has emphasized his work on issues such as affordable housing, economic development, and transportation. He has also been endorsed by several local labor organizations. Website
Gilbert Garcia: The Houston businessman and former Metro chairman has thrown his hat into the ring for the mayoral race. Garcia has emphasized his experience in the private sector and his plans to make Houston a more business-friendly city. He has also discussed issues such as transportation and affordable housing.
Lee Kaplan: The Houston attorney is another candidate in the race. Kaplan has emphasized his experience in criminal justice and his commitment to making Houston safer. He has also discussed the need to address issues such as homelessness and education. Website
Sheila Jackson Lee: The longtime U.S. Representative is seeking to become the next Mayor of Houston. Jackson Lee has emphasized her experience representing Houston on the national stage and her commitment to addressing issues such as healthcare and climate change.
John Whitmire: The longtime Texas State Senator is also running for mayor. Whitmire has emphasized his experience in state government and his ability to bring resources to the city of Houston. He has also discussed the need to address issues such as transportation and public safety. He has also been endorsed by several organizations including the Houston Police Officer's Union and The Texas Gulf Coast Area Labor Federation. Website
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Robin Williams: The Missouri City Police Officer and community activist is rounding out the list of candidates for the Houston mayoral race. Williams has emphasized her plans to "back the blue" and address issues such as education, and affordable housing. She has also emphasized her commitment to grassroots organizing and community involvement. Website
Jack Christie: Elected as Councilman At Large three times, and a recognized chiropractic physician, Christie has also thrown his hat in the mayoral race. He has emphasized his opposition to new taxes and the need for more Houston police officers in the city. Christie has served as President of Spring Branch ISD School Board and Chairman of the State Board of Education. Website
Overall, the Houston mayoral race is shaping up to be a highly competitive and closely-watched contest. With a range of experienced and qualified candidates in the mix, it's difficult to predict who will ultimately come out on top.
It's important to note that there are several other candidates running in addition to the major ones listed above. These candidates include:
Gaylon Caldwell is a veteran and community leader who has emphasized his commitment to improving the lives of working families and seniors in Houston. He has pledged to address issues such as affordable housing, healthcare, and public safety, and to work closely with local communities to build a stronger, more equitable Houston.
Naoufal Houjami is a businessman and community leader who has emphasized his experience in the private sector and his commitment to economic growth and job creation. He has also emphasized his commitment to making Houston more environmentally friendly and sustainable. Facebook
Julian Martinez is a community activist and volunteer who has emphasized his commitment to public service and his experience working with local youth programs. He has pledged to address issues such as education, public safety, and economic development in Houston.
M.J. Khan is a businessman and former Houston City Council Member of District F. During his campaign, he's emphasized his goal to tackle Houston’s crime rates and lead the city with responsible fiscal policies. Website
Chanel Mbala is a community leader whose campaign slogan is, "Safer streets, better roads, and shelter for all." His campaign has focused on creating a safe Houston and recognizing the need to address homelessness in the city. Website.
Annie Garcia is a small business opener and founder of a non-profit. Garcia previously ran for U.S. Senator in 2019 and came fourth among all the candidates. Her campaign focuses on prioritizing public education and saving schools. Website
M. Griffin is a former business owner and has previously run for Houston City Council Member At Large.
B. Ivy's campaign stances are not known based on the guide from the League of Women Voters.
Kathy Lee Tatum is a licensed real estate agent. In her campaign, she has emphasized improving Houston's infrastructure.
Roy Vasquez has done work as an educational consultant. He has emphasized the issues of homelessness in Houston and the need to focus on providing shelters, support, and permanent housing. Vasquez has also mentioned improving Houston's infrastructure as his top issue. Website
David C. Lowy has emphasized his campaign goals as improving homelessness, public safety, and city services. Website
Overall, these minor candidates bring a diverse range of perspectives and priorities to the table. It remains to be seen how voters will respond to these and other candidates as the election heats up in the coming months.