On October 17, 2024, Houston Ethnic Media hosted an important and informative conversation, via Zoom, focused on the often-overlooked down-ballot races for Harris and Fort Bend Counties. The candidates featured play a crucial
role in local governance, justice, and public safety.
The Zoom included the following candidates:
- Annette Ramirez, Democratic Candidate for Tax-Assessor Collector: “I’ve had a life-long feeling of serving… it came from my parents.” She has worked in the legal department for Aldine Independent School District for over 20 years. She currently serves as Assistant General Counsel overseeing the District’s in-house property tax collection, litigation, and real estate matters.
- Daniel Lee, Democratic Candidate for Texas State Representative District 26: “We vote on laws you see…. I’m actually on the family law board already… so I’m ready to go on Day 1.” Lee has been an advocate for all Texans for over two decades, specifically for his neighbors in Katy, Richmond, Pecan Grove, and Houston. He has experience as a lawyer and PTSA board member.
- Margaret Poissant, Democratic Candidate for Justice 14th Court of Appeals, Place 8: “I felt the call to go into public service in 2018. For two reasons…One, I had practiced law for over 35 years in both criminal defense work in several areas in civil law. And the decisions I saw arising out of the Court of Appeals were not satisfactory to me. I thought there should have been a better review of some of the appellate records that came up to the Court of Appeals.” Prior to election, she had more than 30 years of experience as a trial lawyer, having served as lead counsel in hundreds of cases in a broad range of civil and criminal matters in many counties in the State of Texas.She is influenced by his commitment to fighting for justice.
- Marshall Slot, Republican Candidate for Fort Bend County Sheriff: “I had a call to go into public service…by the time I was in junior high, I knew I would be a police officer… Public service is a way of life… about serving others.” Marshall Slot’s roots run deep in Fort Bend County. His family has lived and worked there since the 1950s, with a family legacy of service in Fort Bend County law enforcement. Slot is a 42-year Fort Bend County resident.
- Tameika Carter, Democratic Candidate for Re-Elect, Judge for 400th District Court: “I had an interest in working in court since high school. I decided to choose a career in public service.” When litigants step into the courtroom they can expect efficiency and to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or social-economic status. This continues to be her priority.
- Terry Allbritton, Republican Candidate for Harris County Constable, Precinct 5: ” I decided to serve my community… I did a ride-along with a constable at JP court and felt like I belonged. I’ve been in the constable office for 30 years now and assistant chief here now. My constable is retiring… and I want to pick up the torch.” Terry Allbritton’s candidacy is built on a foundation of experience, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
REMEMBER THIS: Info from the League of Women Voters of Texas – Nonpartisan Voters Guide
Voter ID: What to Take the Polls:
- Texas Drivers License
- Texas Election ID Certificate
- Texas Personal ID Card issued by the Department of Public Safety (DPS)
- Texas Handgun License issued by DPS
- US Military ID Card containing your photograph
- US Citizenship Certificate containing your photograph
- US Passport (book or card)
Notes:
- IDs may have expired up to four years
- Person 70 years or older may use an expired ID, regardless of expiration date
- ID address does not have to match voter registration address
- The name on the photo ID should match the name on the list of registered voters or be “substantially similar.” If your name doesn’t match exactly, you can still vote but will need to sign a form stating you are the person on the list of registered voters.
If you are registered, but do not have a photo ID and cannot reasonably obtain one, you may sign a form and present alternative documentation. Learn more at lwvtexas.org/voterid
For information on the October 12, 2024 Fort Bend Candidate Forum held at UH Sugar Land by BakerRipley and EMGAGE, click here: https://d-mars.com/2024-fort-bend-candidate-forum/
Your vote matters… go vote! – Kim Floyd
