Houston Mayor John Whitmire has been barred from receiving future endorsements from the Harris County Democratic Party (HCDP) following a decisive vote by the party’s precinct chairs.
On Sunday, 186 precinct chairs voted against endorsing Whitmire in the upcoming elections, compared to 80 in favor.
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The resolution came after a coalition of precinct chairs submitted a proposal citing Whitmire’s participation in a fundraising event for U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw.
Whitmire addressed the resolution, reaffirming his commitment to Democratic values and his long record of public service.
“Today, I stand with elected officials, labor leaders, and fellow Democrats because unity is our strength. No resolution will change the fact that I am a Democrat with a 50-year record of voting and supporting Democratic values.
This resolution stems from a process that does not traditionally apply to nonpartisan races, where the Democratic Party does not make endorsements. It was passed by 186 precinct chairs, a small portion of the Democratic electorate. While there may be differing views, the party has long respected that nonpartisan offices require officials to serve beyond party labels and focus on governing.
There were many inaccuracies in the resolution but there is one topic that has consistently misrepresented my stance. Let me be clear: I strongly oppose the fear-based and harmful tactics used by ICE that tear families apart and undermine trust in our communities. Houston does not interact with ICE on immigration enforcement. We follow state and city laws only, including Senate Bill 4. We will continue to keep our city safe while protecting our immigrant communities.
I want to thank the many supporters. This changes nothing. I will continue to fight for Houstonians and work with colleagues across the political spectrum to deliver results, move our city forward, and stay focused on the issues that matter most to Houstonians."
Grassroots organizers with the Houston Progressive Caucus described the vote as a reflection of growing frustration with traditional leadership and a demand for change.
“This outcome did not happen by accident. Grassroots Democrats did the work, and that work won,” said Caucus organizers. When people organize and stand together, people power beats corporate and elite interests every time. This is the beginning of a new era in Houston politics."