The unexpected death of U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee has thrown the Texas Democratic Party into a whirlwind of activity. The longtime congresswoman, who served Texas’ 18th Congressional District for nearly three decades, succumbed to pancreatic cancer on July 19, 2024. Her passing has left a significant void in Houston’s political landscape and prompted an urgent search for her replacement on the November ballot.

The Clock is Ticking

Under Texas law, the Harris County Democratic Party has until 5 p.m. on August 26 to nominate a new candidate. The process involves the Harris County Democratic Party’s executive committee, comprising approximately 130 precinct chairs. These chairs, representing various districts within Harris County, will select a candidate to run against the Republican contender, Lana Centonze.

Potential candidates must present their positions and priorities to the precinct chairs. Despite the urgency, the process remains public and transparent, reflecting what party lawyer Chad Dunn describes as a “very democratic process.” This level of transparency is crucial, given the high stakes and limited timeframe.

The Special Election Dilemma

Governor Greg Abbott has the authority to call a special election to fill the remainder of Jackson Lee’s term, which ends in January. Although state law does not specify a deadline for this decision, historical precedent suggests an election could be called within a month, similar to the 2021 special election following the death of U.S. Rep. Ron Wright. If Abbott decides to proceed, the election must occur within two months of his announcement.

However, the primary focus for Democrats remains the November general election. The precinct chairs’ decision is crucial, as failure to nominate a candidate in time would result in Jackson Lee remaining on the ballot. Should she posthumously win, a new election would be necessary, causing further delays and complications.

Racing Against Time

The Harris County Democratic Party faces additional pressure to finalize their candidate selection before the Democratic National Convention begins on August 19. This self-imposed deadline tightens an already constrained timeline, leaving little room for error. According to precinct chair Melanie Miles, the district is in desperate need of representation, emphasizing the urgency of finding a suitable candidate who can fill the void left by Jackson Lee.

Several potential candidates have expressed interest, and once identified, they will participate in a public forum to present their visions for the district. This forum ensures that the selected candidate not only aligns with the party’s values but also resonates with the constituents they aim to represent.

A Republican Opportunity?

While Democrats scramble to find a replacement, Republicans see an opportunity to capitalize on the disarray. Lana Centonze, the Republican candidate, has been preparing for this race and now faces a potentially weakened Democratic opponent. Centonze’s platform focuses on restoring the America she cherishes for future generations, addressing critical issues like infrastructure, housing, and small business investment.

In a Q&A for Community Impact, Lana Centonze shares her Vision for the 18th Congressional District:

• Why are you running for this position?
• “I am running for this position because I love America and would like my children to grow up in the America I grew up in. I believe America is worth fighting for.”
• Biggest Challenges Facing the District?
• “The biggest challenges facing this district are infrastructure issues, better housing for community members, and investing in small businesses, which helps create a thriving economy.”
• Top Priorities Regarding the Nation’s Economy?
• “We need to get back to a thriving economy. That means we need to invest in small businesses since small businesses help the community to thrive. Our economy is suffering, so families are suffering. To get out of that hole, we need to invest in our communities.”
• Ensuring Access to Health Care Services?
• “I believe health care is important, and lowering the cost of it is also important. My goal is to lower health care costs so it can become affordable to everyone.”
• Building Productive Relationships Across Districts and Party Lines?
• “Building productive relationships is extremely important because transparency is necessary. I also believe connecting with community churches and businesses, letting them know that I am for them and I support them, is extremely important.”

Conclusion

The next few weeks are critical for the Harris County Democratic Party. As they navigate the complexities of nominating a new candidate, the party must balance urgency with diligence to ensure they select a representative capable of continuing Sheila Jackson Lee’s legacy. Meanwhile, Lana Centonze stands ready to present her vision and challenge the Democrats in a district that has long been a Democratic stronghold. The clock is ticking, and the political landscape of Texas’ 18th Congressional District hangs in the balance.

U.S. Representative Marc Veasey, D-Fort Worth, has called for President Joe Biden to step aside as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election. Veasey, a prominent figure in Texas politics and a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, has joined a growing chorus of Democrats who believe that Biden’s age and perceived lack of fitness are jeopardizing what should otherwise be a winning campaign.

This announcement came as part of a joint statement issued on Friday by Veasey and three other House Democrats: Jared Huffman of California, Chuy Garcia of Illinois, and Mark Pocan of Wisconsin. The statement praised Biden’s record but stressed the need for new leadership. “At this point… we must face the reality that widespread public concerns about your age and fitness are jeopardizing what should be a winning campaign,” it read.

Veasey’s call is particularly significant as he is the first member of the Congressional Black Caucus to publicly ask Biden to withdraw. While other Texas members of the CBC, such as Reps. Jasmine Crockett of Dallas and Sheila Jackson Lee of Houston, have been vocal in their support for Biden, Veasey’s stance represents a notable departure.

This move places Veasey in the national spotlight during a crucial election year, particularly as he faces a competitive race for his seat in U.S. House District 33. His Republican opponent, Patrick Gillespie, has been mounting a strong campaign, hoping to capitalize on any perceived weaknesses among the Democratic incumbents.

Patrick Gillespie, a seasoned candidate, brings a robust background to the race. Born in Huntington, West Virginia, Gillespie has lived in Texas for many years. He graduated from Huntington High School and attended Marshall University. His career includes work as a technical writer at several major companies, including Boeing, BAE Systems, American Airlines, and Flextronics International. Gillespie has also served as vice president of Local Lodge 2768 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Union.

Gillespie’s campaign focuses on conservative principles and a strong critique of current Democratic policies. His campaign page outlines his positions on various issues, including immigration, foreign policy, climate change, and gun violence. He advocates for strict immigration controls, citing the need to vet immigrants properly and prevent what he describes as an invasion of illegal crossings. Gillespie also emphasizes the importance of a strong national defense and economic policies aimed at curbing foreign influence and protecting American interests.

One of Gillespie’s key arguments is the need to address the country’s significant challenges, such as the federal debt and the fentanyl crisis. He criticizes “woke” policies in education and calls for balanced budgets and fiscal responsibility. His stance on gun violence focuses on enforcing existing laws and improving mental health care rather than implementing new restrictions on gun ownership.

Veasey’s decision to call for Biden to step aside could have significant implications for his re-election campaign. District 33, while heavily Democratic in voter registration, could see a shift if Democratic voters are disillusioned by the national party’s leadership struggles. In the 2022 election, Veasey defeated Gillespie by a wide margin, securing 72% of the vote to Gillespie’s 25%. However, this year’s political climate is different, with heightened tensions and a more energized Republican base.

The district itself is one of the most gerrymandered in Texas, snaking its way through various parts of Fort Worth, Carrollton, and Arlington. This unique geographic makeup makes it a challenging district to campaign in, as candidates must address the diverse concerns of its residents.

Gillespie’s campaign is banking on a strong turnout from Republican voters and hoping to sway independent and moderate voters who may be disillusioned with the current Democratic leadership. Early voting for the election begins on October 21, 2024, and runs through November 1, 2024, with Election Day set for November 5, 2024.

Veasey’s call for Biden to step aside is a gamble that could either solidify his position as a leader willing to take bold stances or alienate some of his core supporters. As the election approaches, all eyes will be on District 33 to see how this dramatic move will play out and whether it will influence the broader political landscape in Texas and beyond.

For now, Veasey’s statement reflects a growing sentiment among some Democrats that new leadership is needed to secure a victory in the 2024 presidential race. Whether this sentiment will resonate with voters in District 33 and across the country remains to be seen. As the campaign unfolds, Veasey and Gillespie will continue to vie for the support of their constituents, each hoping to emerge victorious in a year that promises to be one of the most pivotal in recent memory.

Dallas, TX – In a heated and divisive political climate, Rep. Jasmine Crockett [D-TX-30] has reignited controversy with a fiery post on X.com, doubling down on her stance regarding H.R.8081, the “Denying Infinite Security and Government Resources Allocated toward Convicted and Extremely Dishonorable Former Protectees Act.” This bill, co-sponsored by Crockett, aims to strip former President Donald Trump of his Secret Service protection, following his conviction on felony charges.

Crockett’s Explosive Response

Following an assassination attempt on Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania, Crockett took to X.com to defend her position and challenge her critics. Her post, marked by overt racism and sexism, has drawn sharp rebuke from across the political spectrum. Crockett’s inflammatory remarks included accusations of “white privilege” and a stark dismissal of her opponents as “losers” and “illogical.”

“Oh the evil & illogical who don’t even serve on my level believe they have sway or authority over me (insert white privilege),” Crockett wrote. She continued, “While I’ve been out of the country on official business, these losers have been looking for Twitter clout.”

Crockett’s post not only defended her stance on the bill but also questioned why taxpayers should foot the bill for Secret Service protection for a convicted felon. “As a sitting member of congress we don’t even get secret service protection so why should taxpayers foot the bill for someone who a jury of his/her peers has deemed guilty of a felony or in this case 34 of ‘em, if they are sentenced to time.”

Oh the evil & illogical who don’t even serve on my level believe they have sway or authority over me (insert white privilege).

While I’ve been out of the country on official business, these losers have been looking for Twitter clout.

But I’ll be gracious because I’m sure half… https://t.co/cDtEQ5hzte

— Jasmine Crockett (@JasmineForUS) July 17, 2024

A Brazen Attack on Trump and Republicans

Crockett’s comments went further, questioning the masculinity of Trump and his supporters. She compared Trump’s situation to that of Martha Stewart, suggesting that Trump’s supporters were implying he was weaker than Stewart. “If Martha Stewart could survive, I’m not sure why y’all are so scared that your Orange Savior couldn’t or is it that you want to admit that women are stronger than many of you, including him?” she quipped.

Her rhetoric didn’t stop there. Crockett boldly challenged her critics to try to unseat her, confident that her constituents would stand by her. “The next time you think it’s a great idea to talk to me; don’t. And… If y’all think your ideas or opinions matter to my district, go work against me to get me kicked out of office… I dare you to go knock doors in my district and cry a river to my constituents and see how it works out for you 😘.”

A Divisive Figure

Crockett’s post has been widely condemned as not only defensive but deeply divisive. Critics accuse her of using overtly racist and sexist language to attack her opponents, while also displaying a palpable hatred for Donald Trump.

Townhall.com highlighted Crockett’s remarks, pointing out the inflammatory nature of her statements. “Crockett also found a way to make yet another issue about ‘white privilege’ and her own importance,” noted the publication. This rhetoric, coupled with her dismissal of her critics, suggests that Crockett may be attempting to position herself as a victim in this scenario.

Political Fallout

The political fallout from Crockett’s comments has been swift. Texas Republicans, already calling for her resignation over the bill, have intensified their demands. The assassination attempt on Trump has only heightened the urgency and emotion surrounding this issue.

Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS), who introduced the bill, also faced backlash for his stance. While Thompson responded more diplomatically, Crockett’s aggressive post has drawn significantly more attention and criticism.

Trump’s Legal Battles

The bill in question, introduced on April 19, came just before Trump’s conviction on 34 felony counts in New York. The legal battles surrounding Trump have been a focal point of national attention, and the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity in the Trump v. United States case has further complicated the situation. Trump’s sentencing, initially scheduled for July 11, has been delayed to September 18, with many believing his conviction will be overturned on appeal.

Independent Candidate Ken Ashby

In the midst of this controversy, Independent candidate Ken Ashby is gaining traction as he challenges Crockett in the upcoming election. With no Republican candidate in District 30, Ashby has positioned himself as the primary conservative alternative. He has capitalized on the controversy surrounding Crockett, criticizing her judgment and her divisive rhetoric.

Ashby released a statement condemning Crockett’s remarks, emphasizing the need for unity and respect in political discourse. “This bill is a dangerous precedent. We must protect all our Presidents, past and present, to uphold the dignity of the office and ensure national security,” Ashby stated.

A Community Divided

Crockett’s district, encompassing parts of Dallas and surrounding areas, remains divided. While some constituents support her strong stance and outspoken nature, others are dismayed by her comments and the potential implications of the DISGRACED Former Protectees Act.

As the political drama unfolds, Rep. Jasmine Crockett remains defiant in the face of mounting criticism. Her recent post on X.com has only deepened the controversy surrounding her co-sponsorship of H.R.8081 and her stance on Trump’s Secret Service protection. With the upcoming election and a formidable opponent in Ken Ashby, Crockett’s political future hangs in the balance. The voters of Texas’ 30th District will ultimately decide whether they stand by Crockett’s divisive rhetoric or seek a new direction in their representation.

The outcome of this race will not only impact North Texas but also reflect the broader national divisions and the challenges facing American politics today.