Gov. Abbott Sets Nov. 4 Special Election for Texas Senate Seat

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has scheduled a special election for November 4, 2025, to fill the Texas Senate District 9 seat vacated by Republican Kelly Hancock, who resigned to become chief clerk of the state comptroller's office. Conservative activist Leigh Wambsganss announced her candidacy for the seat and received endorsements from Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and state Rep. Nate Schatzline, who withdrew his own bid to support her. The election coincides with the state's November uniform election, which includes multiple local races and ballot measures. Wambsganss, a former congressional staffer and leader in conservative causes like opposition to Critical Race Theory and support for pro-life and Second Amendment values, emphasizes her commitment to conservative Christian family values. A Democratic candidate, veteran and union president Taylor Rehmet, is also running. In addition to election news, Gov. Abbott has called a special legislative session beginning July 21 to address several unfinished issues, including vetoed bills and potentially redistricting efforts aimed at strengthening Republican influence in the 2026 midterms.