KPRC – Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo confirmed on Sept. 15 she is not running for re-election.
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Hidalgo became county judge in 2019. With her election, she became the first woman to be elected as the county judge in Harris County.
She was reelected in Nov. 2022. Her current term expires in Dec. 2026.
Several candidates are already in the running to become the next Harris County Judge on March 3, 2026.
Here’s a look at those who have announced their campaigns so far:
Democratic party
Annise Parker
Former Houston mayor Annise Parker joined the race in June 2025. Leveraging her previous experience as city leader, Parker promises to fight budget cuts, “cut government waste,” and prioritize healthcare and flood prevention.
Read more: Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker announces campaign for Harris County Judge in 2026
“The chaos in our state and federal governments is hurting our families right here at home,“ Parker said.
Parker served as an at-large Houston City Council member, Houston City Controller and as the 61st Mayor of Houston from 2010 until 2016.
After serving as mayor, Parker led the nation’s only organization dedicated to electing pro-equality, pro-choice LGBTQ+ leaders.
“I’m running for Harris County Judge to keep our county safe, affordable, and thriving. I’m running to fight the chaos that is hurting our seniors, families, and small businesses. I’m running to fight for US,” she added.
Dr. Letitia Plummer
Native Houstonian Dr. Letitia Plummer announced her candidacy for Harris County Judge on July 8, effectively resigning from her position as At Large-4 Houston City Councilwoman after serving five years.
Dr. Plummer is championing for good-paying jobs, a stronger economy, smarter flood control, and safe, secure neighborhoods.
After Hildago announced that she would not run for re-election, Plummer sent the following statement:
"We stand together at a pivotal moment. I’ll begin by extending my heartfelt gratitude to Judge Lina Hidalgo for her tireless, visionary leadership. Her relentless commitment to progressive ideals has been a game-changer for our county, and her policy agenda, particularly on disaster resiliency and support for working families, has made a tangible difference in people’s lives.
“As we look to the future, the choice is clear. We need a leader who understands the politics of now, not the politics of 15 years ago. This race is not just about the past; it’s about a new generation of leadership ready to tackle the challenges of our time. I am a fresh voice, yet one that is rooted in our community and ready to turn bold ideas into actions. I understand the urgency of this moment and the necessity of having a county judge who will stand as a fierce fighter against hostile state and national politics, who will stand alongside everyone in Harris County to work for a better future, because we deserve better.
“The time for a new chapter is now. Harris County deserves a leader who is ready to meet the moment, ready to invest in our communities, and ready to ensure our future is prosperous and resilient.”
Read more: Houston Council Member Letitia Plummer enters race for Harris County Judge
Erica Lee Carter
Lee Carter, the daughter of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, announced in July that if Hidalgo does not seek re-election, she will be running for Harris County Judge.
After Sheila Lee Jackson’s death, Lee Carter, won a special election to finish her mother’s congressional term, where she defeated two Republican challengers.
She said the community means everything to her and she would be ready to step up and lead on the issues that matter the most to Houston and Harris County.
Lee Carter’s full statement in July:
“In the event that Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo chooses not to see re-election, I am seriously considering entering the race for Harris County Judge.
“As a progressive voice, democrat, and dedicated public servant, I remain committed to providing the kind of forward-looking leadership that addresses the real needs of all Harris County residents. I thank the community leaders and supporters who have encouraged me to consider serving our county. I am actively preparing to step forward should the seat become open.
“I believe that Harris County must continue to lead in the building up communities and stand together against divisive policies, politics, and people.”
Republican party
Aliza Dutt
Aliza Dutt has been the mayor of Piney Point Village, Texas since 2024. Before diving headfirst into politics, Mayor Dutt was a reporter for Dow Jones and The Oil Daily in Washington D.C.
Mayor Dutt vows to team up with law enforcement to reduce crime and control the border crisis.
Read more: Piney Point Mayor launches campaign against Lina Hidalgo for Harris County Judge
Marty Lancton
Houston Firefighters’ Union leader Marty Lancton launched his campaign run for Harris County judge.
Serving two decades in his community, Lancton said he’s been on the front lines in civic and charitable leadership.
In 2016, Lancton was elected President of the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, and in 2017, his leadership expanded statewide when he was elected Vice President of the Texas State Association of Fire Fighters.
After Hidalgo’s announcement, Lancton posted the following on X:
“Judge Lina Hidalgo’s exit makes one thing clear. Harris County is at a crossroads. We can’t afford recycled politicians while crime rises, taxes crush families, and the budget is broken. I’ve spent my career delivering results and I intend to deliver for Harris County.
Warren Howell
Warren Howell was born and raised in Harris County. His priorities include reducing toll fares, publishing a “pot-hole wall of shame,” and ending Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI).
Oscar Gonzales
Houston native Oscar Gonzales, raised in 5th Ward/Tuffly Park neighborhood, says the county needs a backbone to stop the waste, stop the chaos, and put the community back on track.
“It’s time to protect our families, cut the tax burden, and bring accountability back to county government,” Gonzales said.
Here are the following challenges he said are facing Harris County:
- Protecting families – Restoring public safety and tackling rising crime head-on.
- Providing tax relief – Ending reckless spending and lowering the burden on hardworking families.
- Promoting transparency – Opening up county government and holding it accountable to the people.
- Prosperity for all – Encouraging economic growth that benefits every community.
Orlando Sanchez
Sanchez, Cuban native, said he moved to Houston as a child, fleeing oppression.
He graduated from Bellaire High School and then the University of Houston. He is also a proud veteran who served the United States Air Force and the Texas Air National Guard.
Sanchez served six years on Houston’s City Council and was assigned to the Council’s Budget Committee. Elected as Treasurer for Harris County for 12 years.
Potential candidates still have until December 8 to apply to get on the primary ballot.
We’ll continue updating this list as more candidates join the race.