Early Voting Opens for Houston’s December Runoff Election

Early voting is now underway across Houston for the December runoff election, giving voters a limited period to make their choices in several key local races. The runoff will decide crucial seats that remained unresolved after November’s general election.

Officials urge eligible residents to review their polling locations, which may differ from those used earlier this fall. The runoff includes races that directly affect neighborhood services, community budgets, and citywide leadership.

Key Details About Early Voting

Harris County opened polling sites this week, and early voting will continue through the designated period leading up to the December election date. Voters must bring proper identification and should confirm hours before heading out, as schedules can vary by location.

County election leaders said turnout in runoffs is often lower than in November, so every ballot carries added weight. Several district-level races—along with contests involving local oversight boards—will be decided solely by those who participate during this short window.

• Early voting runs now through the week before Election Day in December.
• Multiple polling sites are open across the Houston area.
• Voters must bring valid photo identification.
• Sample ballots and site wait times are available through county election tools.

Why It Matters for Houston

These runoffs influence decisions that touch daily life in Houston. City and community leaders selected in December will shape infrastructure priorities, redevelopment planning, business regulations, and funding for essential public services. Because turnout is historically small, a single precinct can tip the outcome in close races.

Local business owners also watch these elections closely. New officeholders can impact permitting timelines, zoning conversations, and neighborhood-level economic development. Workers and commuters may see policy changes that affect transit, public safety resources, or project timelines.

What’s Next

Early voting continues until just before Election Day, when regular precinct locations will reopen for final ballots. Residents should verify their district and candidates using Harris County’s election search tools.

Once polls close on Election Night, county officials will release results shortly after tabulation begins. Local races can be decided by razor-thin margins, so counts may continue into the night.

This article is a summary of reporting by Click2Houston. Read the full story here.