Texas's 18th congressional district is acongressional district in the U.S. state of Texas. It includes much of inner-cityHouston and the surrounding area and has been the Downtown Houston district since 1973. The district is represented by DemocratChristian Menefee, who was sworn in on February 2, 2026, after being elected in aJanuary 2026 special election runoff following the death of DemocratSylvester Turner.[5]
The district was represented during the 1970s byBarbara Jordan, the first black woman elected to Congress from the South, who was praised by many for her powerful presence and oratorical skills.[6] The district was represented bySheila Jackson Lee from 1995 until her death in 2024, when the seat became vacant. Her daughter,Erica Lee Carter succeeded her for the unexpired term.[7] Former Houston mayorSylvester Turner then succeeded Carter before his death on March 5, 2025. Aspecial election was held on November 4, 2025, followed by a runoff on January 31, 2026, which was won byChristian Menefee.[8]
Since the district was moved to Houston in 1972, it has voted for a Democrat in every presidential election. The district gaveGeorge McGovern 69% in 1972 andWalter Mondale 72% in 1984.
For the118th and successive Congresses (based on redistricting following the2020 census), the district contains all or portions of the following counties and communities:[11]
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