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Keeping track of every congressional race can be a daunting task, even for pollsters and data experts. However, the unexpected outcome of the late-May Texas primary runoff in the 18th Congressional District caught many by surprise, including myself. Longtime Democratic Representative Al Green, known for his stalwart opposition to Trump, did not manage to secure a win.
Green, who previously served the 9th District, decided to run in the 18th District after redistricting rendered his former seat more favorable to Republicans. Despite his history of advocating for Trump’s impeachment and his skillful, albeit controversial, use of racial issues in his political strategy, Green faced an unexpected challenge.
The 18th District already had a rising star in the form of 38-year-old Democrat Christian Menefee. Menefee had secured his position through a special election runoff in January, following the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner. With a clear desire for new leadership evident among party voters this election cycle, Menefee’s appeal was undeniable. In a decisive victory, Menefee claimed 69.3 percent of the vote, effectively ending Green’s campaign, who garnered only 30.7 percent.
But the 18th already had a much younger Democrat in Congress, 38-year-old Christian Menefee, who won a special election runoff in January to replace deceased Congressman Sylvester Turner. Â Since fresh blood seems to be what the party’s voters want this election cycle, Green, 78, was shown the door in a blowout runoff victory for Menefee, with 69.3 percent of the vote compared to Green’s 30.7 percent.