Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has issued a proclamation ordering a special election to be held in Senate District 15 in Texas. The order comes after the Honorable John Whitmire took the oath of office as Mayor of the City of Houston, creating a vacancy in the district. According to the Texas Constitution and the Texas Election Code, a special election must be held to fill the vacancy.

The special election in Senate District 15 will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Candidates who wish to be on the ballot must file their applications with the Secretary of State by Monday, March 4, 2024. Early voting by personal appearance will begin on Monday, April 22, 2024, and end on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

Governor Abbott's proclamation states, "I, GREG ABBOTT, Governor of Texas, under the authority vested in me by the Constitution and Statutes of the State of Texas, do hereby order a special election to be held in Texas State Senate District No. 15 on Saturday, May 4, 2024, for the purpose of electing a state senator to serve out the unexpired term of the Honorable John Whitmire."

The Governor's proclamation also directs that a copy of the order be mailed to the Harris County Judge, as well as all appropriate writs be issued and proceedings followed to ensure the election is held in accordance with the law.

This special election will give the residents of Senate District 15 the opportunity to choose a new state senator to represent them and serve out the remaining term.