Carrying the Torch: Erica Lee Carter fills late mother’s seat in congressional transition

Erica Lee Carter, daughter of the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and current employee of the Office of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, is being sworn in on Nov. 12 to serve the remainder of her mother’s term in the 18th Congressional District. This temporary appointment comes ahead of former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner taking on the position as Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee’s permanent successor in January.

On Nov. 5, Carter won a special election to complete her mother's term, while Turner was elected the permanent representative for the district. Carter's oath-of-office ceremony will take place today in Washington, D.



C., and can be viewed live on C-SPAN at 5:30 p.m.

Central Time. "Today, as Erica Lee Carter steps into her mother’s role, we’re witnessing more than a transition; we’re witnessing the endurance of a powerful legacy," said Harris County Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis. "The late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee was a warrior for justice—a voice that never faltered, a force that shaped our community in ways that will resonate for years to come.

Now, her daughter steps forward, not just to honor her mother’s work, but to bring her own strength and compassion to the role. Ellis added that he has had the privilege of watching Erica grow up and seeing her evolve into a community leader. "The people of Congressional District 18 are in good hands," he said, "and I have complete confidence that Erica will carry herself with the same courage her mother showed.

Sheila would be so proud, and so are we.".