Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo defiantly dismissed both her recent 3-1 censure by the commissioners court and calls for her removal, challenging critics to unseat her in an election.
The censure was led by the lone Republican commissioner, Tom Ramsey, and was backed by Democrats Adrian Garcia and Lesley Briones.
Ramsey criticized Hidalgo’s “disruptive behavior”—including outbursts, profanity, and absences for mental health treatment—during her push for a property tax increase to fund early childhood education.
He has since advocated for her removal, citing ineffective leadership and eroded public trust.
In a KPRC 2 interview, Hidalgo dismissed the removal effort as “a torpedo into the heart of democracy,” challenging critics like Ramsey to “run against me” in 2026.
“I’m not a well-manicured talking points politician,” she said, admitting to profanity but defending her authenticity.
She said that rejection of her childcare initiative was based on “alternative facts,” warning it would harm families. Hidalgo also raised concerns about a potential state takeover of the Harris County Flood Control District, labeling it politically driven.
Under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 87, removing a county judge requires a resident of the county not under indictment to file a written petition in district court alleging incompetence, official misconduct, or intoxication.
The petition, addressed to the presiding judge of the administrative judicial region, must detail specific acts with clear language.
A district judge from outside the county would oversee a jury trial, with possible suspension during proceedings.
No verified petition against Hidalgo has been confirmed as of today.
Meanwhile, several candidates have already accepted Hidalgo’s challenge to run against her.
The 2026 race for Harris County Judge is shaping up to be crowded.
Democrats Annise Parker and Letitia Plummer have announced primary challenges to Hidalgo.
On the Republican side, Aliza Dutt, the Piney Point Village mayor, is emphasizing crime reduction and fiscal discipline. Marty Lancton, a Houston firefighters’ union leader, is focusing on public safety. Warren Howell is advocating for toll reductions and the elimination of DEI programs.
