Texas voters set record before final week of campaigning
Harris County saw over 126,000 in-person votes on Friday, while candidates in Houston and Amarillo focus on costs and borders ahead of Tuesday's election.
By Pedro Barnes ·
Texas early voting has broken previous records as candidates enter their final stretch before Election Day. Unofficial county figures show Harris County has surpassed one million early voters. More than one million people cast ballots in person, and nearly 45,000 mail ballots have been received so far.
Friday was the busiest day for in-person voting in Harris County. Over 126,000 residents went to the polls that day. The high turnout comes as candidates across the state rush to finish their campaigns before Tuesday, November 3.
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton stopped in Houston to address the cost of living. He pointed to rising prices for gas, groceries, and electricity. "Everything costs more, gas, groceries, electricity, everything’s up except our paychecks," Paxton told supporters. He outlined a plan to lower costs for families and help Texans afford homes and healthcare.
Governor Greg Abbott campaigned in Amarillo and Laredo, focusing on border security, property taxes, and affordability. He 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, noting the differences between himself and his opponents.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa and U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico campaigned together in Houston. Hinojosa criticized Abbott over rising costs. "Property taxes have increased 85% under Greg Abbott," Hinojosa said. Talarico focused on campaign finance reform. "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 an acceptable form of photo identification. She advised checking sample ballots before heading to the polls. Polling locations will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. Harris County voters can cast their ballots at any county vote center. More information is available at HarrisVotes.com.
