Republican Orlando Sanchez, former county treasurer and city council member, running for Harris County judge
Sanchez is among several candidates vying for the seat being left open by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, who is not seeking reelection next year. He says he would rein in the county’s spending — and work well with Houston Mayor John Whitmire.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo reports spike in campaign funds, almost entirely from legal services refunds
Hidalgo, who has not yet revealed whether she plans to seek a third term, received about $26,000 in campaign donations between January and June. But her campaign's cash on hand ballooned from about $41,000 to more than $600,000, because of refunds for legal services.
Houston City Council member Letitia Plummer announces run for Harris County Judge
Plummer joins a field for the 2026 Democratic primary that also includes former Houston Mayor Annise Parker. Incumbent Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has not revealed whether she plans to seek a third term.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo vs. Annise Parker in 2026 would be ‘very tight race,’ says Houston political expert
Hidalgo reportedly will run for a third term as the county's top executive. She could face Parker, the former Houston mayor, in what would be a Democratic primary between local heavyweights.
Houston Public Media