We have a Saturday election in the Lone Star State. Voters in all 254 counties are heading to the polls today to vote on two potential amendments to the state constitution. Both aim to lower property taxes. Proposition 1 would cap school property taxes on homeowners who are disabled or who are 65 or older. Proposition 2 raises the deduction allowed on home values from $25,000 to $40,000. Both shift the burden of funding for public schools from homeowners to the state.
In southwest Houston, the seat in state House District 147 is vacant after Garnet Coleman, who had served in the Texas House since 1991, retired early due to worsening health. There are two Democrats vying to replace him. Both ran and emerged from the March 1 primary using the new district lines to advance to a runoff that will take place on May 24. Today’s special election uses the old district lines, and the winner will serve out former Rep. Coleman’s term through the end of the year.
We’re also tracking municipal elections that are taking place in Arlington, Ft. Worth, Garland, Irving, and Lubbock. Any race with more than two candidates is subject to a runoff election if no candidate achieves a 50%+1 majority of the vote. Polls close in most of the state at 7 p.m. (CDT) and an hour later where mountain time is observed.