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Erica Lee Carter Announces Candidacy for Late Mother’s Congressional Seat
In a heartfelt announcement, Erica Lee Carter has declared her intention to run in the special election for the U.S. House seat once held by her mother, the late Sheila Jackson Lee. This decision follows the recent passing of the long-serving congresswoman, who represented Texas’ 18th congressional district for three decades before her death from pancreatic cancer at the age of 74.
Lee Carter expressed her deep desire to “finish for my mom” as she steps into the political arena. She acknowledged the tremendous support from the Houston community since her mother’s death, remarking on the “overwhelming outpouring of love, support and appreciation” directed toward her family during these trying times.
Tributes to a Committed Public Servant
Reflecting on her mother’s legacy, Lee Carter mentioned the significant influence Sheila Jackson Lee had on public service and legislative efforts. “As I witnessed my mother’s tremendous commitment, the countless stories I’ve heard since her passing have made her ‘larger than life’ presence even more so,” she said.
Sheila Jackson Lee was re-elected to the 118th Congress to advocate for the interests of her constituents, a role she cherished until her final moments. Lee Carter recounted that many community leaders and party supporters had encouraged her to consider running for the seat, ultimately leading her to affirm her candidacy.
Jackson Lee had previously battled cancer, fighting breast cancer starting in 2011 and declaring herself cancer-free the following year. Her lengthy political career began as a judge, and she was first elected to the Houston City Council in 1989 before moving to Congress.
A Path Forward for the District
In a prior ambition, Jackson Lee ran for mayor of Houston but was defeated by John Whitmire before she decided to seek re-election to Congress. Lee Carter recalled her mother’s work ethic, emphasizing her determination and dedication to her job and community interactions. “My Mom was the ultimate finisher,” she noted, recalling her mother’s commitment to public service even late into the night.
The special election is set for November 5, and the victor will serve for the remainder of the ongoing term, ending on January 3. On the same day, a general election will be held to decide the long-term representative for the district, a position for which candidates are in the process of being nominated.
If elected, Lee Carter aims to honor her mother’s legacy by prioritizing justice, equality, healthcare, human rights, and economic opportunity, asserting that she will strive to support the critical needs of the 18th Congressional District. She called on Harris County Democrats to come together to regain representation for the community on important national issues, promising to carry forward her mother’s mission in Congress. “Together, we will finish for my Mom, The Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee,” she stated.
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