State Sen. John Whitmire on Wednesday was leading in the Democratic primary for his seat in the state Legislature with almost all precincts reporting.
Whitmire faced off against local activist and emergency room nurse Molly Cook to represent Senate District 15, which includes Bellaire, The Heights and Humble. As of Wednesday afternoon, 366 of Harris County’s 375 polling locations had reported their unofficial results, with Whitmire taking 57% of the vote.
If nominated, he’ll face the sole Republican challenger, George Brian Vachris, during the general election in November.
The incumbent has represented Houston in the Texas Senate since 1982 after serving 10 years in the Texas House of Representatives.
Last year, he announced that he was running for mayor — making him the first prospective candidate vying for the position after Mayor Sylvester Turner’s final term ends in 2023.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Cook had not yet conceded the race, saying on Twitter she would wait for all the votes to come in.
Still waiting for final results. You will hear from the team when we do. For now, the Molly for Texas crew is resting, working their other jobs, and BEAMING with pride.
I feel powerful, deeply connected, and very Texan. Good job, y'all.
— Molly Cook for Texas Senate (@MollyforTexas) March 2, 2022
