Rep. Celia Israel (D-Austin) announced she would run to succeed term-limited Mayor Steve Adler. Israel, who did not seek re-election, had been exploring the race since September, and her formal announcement had been expected.

Real estate agent and former council candidate Jennifer Virden and fitness trainer Erica Nix are already in the race. Council member Kathie Tovo and former Sen. Kirk Watson (D-Austin), who was mayor before running for Senate, are considering the race.

‍GOV (Likely R): Gov. Greg Abbott (R) released a list of more than 50 sheriffs who have endorsed his re-election, representing roughly a quarter of Republican sheriffs in the state. The Combined Law Enforcement Agencies of Texas PAC endorsed Abbott.Freshman Rep. Jeff Cason (R-Bedford), who did not seek re-election, endorsed former Sen. Don Huffines (R-Dallas). Cason’s district went from Lean R to Likely D after redistricting.

‍LTGOV (Lean R): The National Rifle Assoc. PAC endorsed Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R).

‍HD12 (Safe R): Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC endorsed Rep. Kyle Kacal (R-College Station).

‍HD37 open (Lean D): Texas Right to Life PAC endorsed Janie Lopez (R).

‍HD60 (Safe R): Texas Right to Life PAC endorsed challenger Mike Olcott (R) over Rep. Glenn Rogers (R-Graford).

‍HD98 (Safe R): Texans for Lawsuit Reform PAC endorsed Rep. Giovanni Capriglione (R-Southlake).

‍Austin: 220 people (0.6% of registered voters) have cast ballots during the first two days of early voting for the January 25 special election to fill the unexpired term of council member Greg Casar, who is running for CD35.

‍Houston: 350 people have cast ballots during the first two days of early voting for the January 25 special election to fill the unexpired term of council member Greg Travis, who is running for HD133.

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