TEXAS – Texas’ 18th Congressional District officially has representation again after Christian Menefee was sworn in to Congress, ending a vacancy that lasted more than 330 days.
During House floor remarks, Rep. Lloyd Doggett emphasized the impact of the prolonged absence, saying Houstonians in District 18 had been denied representation and declaring, “These Texans finally have the representation they deserve.”
Menefee, who won a special election to complete the late Rep. Sylvester Turner’s term, addressed the House following his swearing-in, acknowledging the legacy left behind.
He said that he understands there are “very big shoes to fill,” adding, “I will work as hard as I can to live up to the legacy.”
District 18 includes large portions of Houston and has gone without a voting member of Congress since Turner’s death, leaving constituents without a voice on federal legislation for nearly a year.
Menefee will serve the remainder of Turner’s term and is expected to immediately begin work on issues impacting the district, including infrastructure, public safety, and economic equity.