Harris County Vote: Early Turnout Tops One Million
Record in-person voting and mail ballots arrived before Tuesday's election, while candidates targeted costs and border security in final stops.
By Adriana Abebe ·
Texas voters broke early voting records on Friday as election day approached. Unofficial county data shows Harris County surpassed one million in-person ballots. Nearly 45,000 mail ballots were also received.
Friday marked the busiest single day of the early voting period in the county. More than 126,000 residents cast ballots in person. This figure set a new local record for daily turnout.
Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton held a rally in Houston. He cited rising prices for gas, groceries, and electricity. “Everything costs more, gas, groceries, electricity, everything’s up except our paychecks,” Paxton told supporters. He promised a plan to help families afford homes and healthcare.
Governor Greg Abbott campaigned in Amarillo and Laredo. He emphasized border security, property taxes, and affordability. Abbott urged supporters to encourage others to vote. “Affordability is a major issue, yes. But, our values and what’s happening in our state,” Abbott said.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa and Senate candidate James Talarico campaigned together in Houston. Hinojosa targeted property taxes and government accountability. “Property taxes have increased 85% under Greg Abbott,” Hinojosa said.
Talarico focused on campaign finance reform. He said he wants to limit the influence of wealthy donors. “I’m gonna vote to ban corporate PACs and super PACs so billionaires can’t buy our elections,” Talarico said.
Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth reminded voters to bring photo identification. She also advised checking sample ballots before heading to the polls. Polling locations remain open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3.
