HOUSTON – Harris County commissioners voted Thursday to appoint Abby Kamin as the county’s next attorney in a split 3-2 decision.
Commissioners Lina Hidalgo and Tom Ramsey voted against the appointment.
Recommended Videos
Hidalgo said she could not support Kamin’s selection, citing concerns about how she learned of Daniel Wong being appointed in neighboring Fort Bend County.
Kamin will make history as the first woman and first mother to serve as Harris County Attorney. She is set to begin the role on June 15.
Kamin released the following statement:
“I am deeply honored and thank the Commissioners and Judge for this opportunity to serve. I will work hard every single day to defend and protect our County. As the first mother to serve as Harris County Attorney, I will fight for Harris County families as fiercely as I fight for my own –– with everything I’ve got.
“I want to recognize the hard work and accomplishments of Congressman Christian Menefee and County Attorney Jonathan Fombonne, whose service and progress I will build upon. This is an office of hardworking, dedicated staff –– public servants who are committed to good government, sterling representation, and deep respect for the law. During this critical time in our nation’s history, we will protect the rights of the people of Harris County and our democracy.”
The position was vacated by Christian Menefee, who now represents Texas’ 18th Congressional District after winning a special election. Menefee is also in a runoff race to secure a spot on the November ballot.
Kamin is expected to serve in the role on an interim basis while also running to permanently fill the office.
The county attorney’s office is currently led by Jonathan Fombonne.