Top Line
Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D) announced She will run for Houston’s open mayoral seat this year, making the outspoken progressive representative immediately the most recognizable candidate for the top government job in the nation’s fourth-largest city.
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Representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Tex.) speaks during the House Judiciary Committee Markup of Articles , [+]
important facts
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Rep. Jackson Lee made the announcement at a church event livestreamed Sunday, which began receiving widespread attention Monday after Houston online publication Urban Reform and other media outlets. shared Video.
Having served as a member of Congress since 1995, she told the assembled congregation: “Sheila Jackson Lee wants to come home to be your mayor for the city of Houston.”
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Jackson Lee, 73, is known for speaking out in favor of various progressive and social justice causes such as gun control and Medicare for All during congressional proceedings, while his assertive demeanor has made him a favorite among progressives, but few curse for the people. Right Wing, with Fox News host Tucker Carlson labeling Her “Most Obnoxious Members of Congress”—From Caesar to Left.
Jackson Lee’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment about his mayoral bid.
what to watch
Election Day is November 7th. If Jackson Lee wins, she will only have to give up her seat in Congress, as she is not up for re-election this year.
main background
Jackson Lee’s candidacy comes at a dangerous time for progressives, especially those seeking local office, as conservatives and centrists blame the left wing for issues such as a perceived increase in violent crime in large cities — though houston police statistics suggest that violent crimes had actually decreased after a spike during the Covid-19 pandemic last year. San Francisco voters recall progressive District Attorney Chessa Boudin and three board of education members Last year, while progressive Karen Bass won the Los Angeles mayoral runoff over former Republican Rick Caruso by a one-point margin in November. Polls show a neck-and-neck race for Chicago mayor next week between progressives Brandon Jackson and Paul Vallas, who Help from conservatives and the city’s business community. Quick vote Turns out crime is a top issue in the Houston mayoral race, even though the murder count dropped last year, that could still encourage attacks against Jackson Lee, rated as a high-profile progressive Is. Other declared candidates include former Houston councilwoman Amanda Edwards and Texas Democratic Party vice chairman Chris Hollins. Mayor Sylvester Turner is ineligible for a third term as mayor due to term limits.
US Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Is Running for Houston Mayor (Texas Tribune)
San Francisco recalls progressive DA Chesa Boudin, billionaire Caruso advances in Los Angeles mayoral race (Forbes)
