Our Lawsuit to Expand Early Voting in TX-18
Houston Justice is a plaintiff in the lawsuit seeking to expand early voting in Texas’ 18th Congressional District after severe weather eliminated two scheduled early voting days.
This election was delayed for months, leaving residents of TX-18 without representation in Congress for nearly a year. Now, voters are being asked to accept a significantly shortened early voting period in an already compressed election timeline. That outcome undermines meaningful access to the ballot.
Early voting is essential for working people, seniors, voters with disabilities, and residents who rely on public transportation. When early voting days are lost, the impact is not evenly distributed. It falls hardest on communities that already face structural barriers to participation.
Texas law does not allow local election officials to unilaterally extend early voting days, even in extraordinary circumstances. As a result, the courts are the only avenue available to ensure voters are given a fair opportunity to cast their ballots.
Houston Justice exists to expand civic participation and protect access to the ballot. Joining this lawsuit is consistent with our mission and our responsibility to the voters we serve.
Durrel K. Douglas, Founder and Executive Director of Houston Justice, a resident and registered voter in Texas’ 18th Congressional District, said:
“I live in TX-18. I vote in TX-18. And like thousands of other residents, I am directly impacted when early voting days disappear. Early voting is not a luxury, it’s how many people are able to participate at all. After months of delay and now lost voting days due to severe weather, voters deserve more access, not less. That’s why Houston Justice joined this lawsuit. This is about ensuring people in our district have the time and opportunity to make their voices heard.”
Houston Justice stands with voters across TX-18 and will continue to use every available tool to protect fair and accessible elections.
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For More Information:
Durrel Douglas: ddouglas@houjustice.org, 832.857.5737