Jackson Lee on launch of Houston mayoral bid: 'I will not be able to do it without each and every one of you'

U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Houston) officially entered her name into this year’s Houston mayoral race on Sunday, joining a packed field of aspirants seeking to become incumbent Mayor Sylvester Turner’s successor.

Jackson Lee announced her candidacy at an event at City Cathedral Church at 4900 Fournace Pl.

“Sheila Jackson Lee wants to come home to be your mayor for the city of Houston,” she said, Houston NBC affiliate KPRC reported. “I will not be able to do it without each and every one of you.” 

Jackson Lee, who currently represents Texas's 18th Congressional District that includes much of inner city Houston and surrounding areas, will be facing opponents such as State Sen. John Whitmire (D-Houston), the purported candidate with the most campaign funds raised; Houston City Councilman Robert Gallegos; and ex-Houston City Councilmember Amanda Edwards. 

Houston Daily reported that Chris Hollins, an attorney by profession who’s best known for leading the Harris County Clerk’s Office during the 2020 election, dropped out of the contest to run for city controller.

Jackson Lee’s announcement put to rest speculation that she’ll aim for the highest office in the Lone Star State’s largest city. 

Houston ABC affiliate KTRK reported that a statement issued by the congresswoman’s office said there was positive feedback when it came to the possibility of a mayoral bid. 

"Supporters of Sheila are pleased with the favorable responses of a broad representation of Houston's diverse communities,” the statement said. “To that end, we express the congresswoman's excitement about making a future formal announcement. Stay tuned, Houston will hear from Sheila!”

Houston NPR affiliate Houston Public Media (HPM) reported that Dr. Bob M. Stein, a political science professor at Rice University, said Jackson Lee’s entry changes the composition of the race.

Stein told HPM that Jackson Lee, who has served on Capitol Hill since 1995, could split the black vote, which is purportedly seen as a benefit to Whitmire, who is a likely favorite among conservative Houston voters albeit he’s a Democrat.

HPM reported that Jackson Lee can still retain her congressional seat even as she runs for mayor.