"These races decide who speaks for Texas in Washington and who runs the state's most powerful offices. The U.S. Senate seat, attorney general's office, and lieutenant governor's office all influence how federal and state money flows to places like Houston and Harris County. The attorney general, for example, enforces consumer protection laws and civil rights rules that touch everyday life. Knowing who won helps you understand what policy changes may be coming — and who to contact when those changes affect your neighborhood."
Texas held runoff elections to decide party nominees for U.S. Senate, attorney general, lieutenant governor, railroad commissioner, and several judicial seats. Houston Public Media tracked results as votes came in statewide. The runoff winners advance to the November general election, where they will compete for offices that shape policy on healthcare, education, and the economy — all of which affect Houston families directly.
Here is a quick look at what the runoff results mean. Ken Paxton won the Republican U.S. Senate nomination, defeating longtime incumbent Sen. John Cornyn. Paxton will face Democrat James Talarico in November. State Sen. Mayes Middleton won the Republican attorney general nomination, beating U.S. Rep. Chip Roy. On the Democratic side, state Sen. Nathan Johnson of Dallas won the attorney general nomination. State Rep. Vikki Goodwin won the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor and will face incumbent Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick in the fall. In a tight Republican race for railroad commissioner — the office that regulates Texas oil and gas — Bo French held a slim lead over incumbent Jim Wright. Thomas Smith won the Republican primary runoff for Place 3 on the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, the state's highest court for criminal cases.
Use this coverage to get up to speed before November's general election. Compare the nominees' positions on issues that matter to your household — school funding, energy costs, consumer protections. The November ballot will also include the governor's race between Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and Democratic nominee Gina Hinojosa, so there is plenty left to follow. Houston Public Media will continue updating results and analysis as more votes are counted.
These results connect directly to Houston's future. The attorney general enforces laws that protect consumers and businesses here. The lieutenant governor controls the Texas Senate agenda, which sets state education and budget priorities. Railroad commissioner decisions affect energy costs for Houston households. And the U.S. Senate seat shapes federal funding that reaches Houston's infrastructure, transit, and public services.
