The official sample ballot lists the sitting judge in this race as a Republican. Some secondary sources listed the judge in the Democratic primary; party history has not been verified.
Judge, County Criminal Court at Law No. 14
4-year termPadilla, the sitting judge (elected 2022), is the Republican nominee. Quezada, an associate judge, won the Democratic primary over James Hu (54.56%). Incumbency per the Harris County bench book directory unless noted. A 2026 Houston Bar Association judicial preference poll result was not located during this research; barPoll results are left blank rather than estimated.Candidates listed. Last researched Oct 20, 2026Report a correction
RepublicanIncumbent
Democratic
Candidates listed. Positions for this contest have not been researched yet.
Sources for this contest (5)
- Sample Ballot, November 3, 2026 General and Special Elections (composite, all ballot styles), Harris County Elections (harrisvotes.com). Retrieved Oct 20, 2026.
- Texas Harris County Bench Book 2027, Table of Contents, ALM / Law.com. Retrieved Oct 20, 2026.
- Cumulative Results, Democratic Primary, March 3, 2026, Harris County Elections. Retrieved Oct 20, 2026.
- Cumulative Results, Republican Primary, March 3, 2026, Harris County Elections. Retrieved Oct 20, 2026.
- Jessica N. Padilla, County Criminal Court at Law No. 14, Branch. Retrieved Oct 20, 2026.