Criminal District Judge, 496th Judicial District
4-year termSimons was appointed by Gov. Abbott on Jan. 7, 2025 to serve until Dec. 31, 2026. Franklin won the Democratic primary over Michael Abner (61.54%). 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.
- Governor Abbott Appoints Simons To 496th Judicial District Court, Office of the Texas Governor. Retrieved Oct 20, 2026.