With Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo stepping down, the question now is who will take the lead in the 2026 election. Several prominent candidates have already entered the race, setting the stage for a high-profile contest.

Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker announced Wednesday that she is her running for Harris County Judge in the November 2026 election.

“Harris County is at a crossroads. Voters are tired of rising taxes, rising crime, and rising dysfunction,” said Mayor Aliza Dutt. “I’m running to restore common sense, protect our families, and get government back to doing the basics—safely, efficiently, and transparently.”