'Dodged a problem': Internet celebrates as Sen John Whitmire triumphs over Rep Sheila Jackson Lee in Houston mayoral race

HOUSTON, TEXAS: In the December 9 runoff election for Houston mayor, 74-year-old Texas State Senator John Whitmire secured a decisive victory over fellow Democrat, 73-year-old Representative Sheila Jackson Lee.

As per the most recent update from NBC, with nearly 70% of the votes tallied, Whitmire commands a substantial lead with an almost 65% share, while Lee trails with 35%.

The two candidates emerged as finalists from the November 7 general election, where 18 candidates competed. In the initial round, Whitmire led with 43% of the votes, while Jackson Lee garnered 36%.

At his victory party at the George R Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston, Whitmire promised to solve the city's problems, saying, "Great cities solve their problems. Together, we can solve our problems. The first way you solve your problem is to admit you have one."

"And I don't mind telling folks what a great city we have, but we've got great challenges. It'll be an opportunity to show the nation what the city of Houston can do. We will not kick our can down the road any longer," he added.

The Senator, whose campaign focused on crime reduction in the largest Texas city and enhancing infrastructure, is set to assume office succeeding Mayor Sylvester Turner.

Turner, who served for eight years, is ineligible for re-election due to term limits.

Whitmire has been a representative for Houston for over 50 years, serving in both the Texas House of Representatives and the Senate. In contrast, Lee has been representing Houston in Congress since 1995.

Sheila Jackson Lee loses despite endorsements from big names

Lee garnered notable endorsements for the mayoral election, with support from prominent figures such as Bill and Hillary Clinton, Representatives Nancy Pelosi and Hakeem Jeffries.

Additionally, the term-limited incumbent mayor, Turner, also backed the Congresswoman.

"She has been a champion for as long as I've known her, as long as she's represented many of you in Congress," said Hillary about Lee at a rally in October.

"We need her leadership, her advocacy, her grit, to get stuff done for the people of Houston," added the former Secretary of State.

Lee's campaign was marred by a scandal when an audio clip surfaced, revealing her using profanity directed at a staff member.

The incident sparked backlash, and the repercussions of this controversy might have influenced the election results.

In her concession speech, Lee expressed gratitude to the voters, congratulated Whitmore, and pledged to collaborate with him.

She stated, "I commit to working with him because, as I observed the city and listened to all of you, I believe that our ideas can propel this city into the future, as I have consistently emphasized."

Internet seems happy with Sheila Jackson Lee's defeat

Following the controversy sparked by the leaked audio questioning her management style with staff, Lee was perceived as a less-than-ideal candidate, potentially contributing to her lackluster performance in the election.

Numerous reactions on social media underscore this sentiment.

One user said, "Houston, we dodged a problem."

Another user remarked, "The best news I’ve heard today."

"YES!!! way to go Houston!" a user said.

Another user said, "Definitely elected the best choice, congratulations!"

One user shared a meme with the caption, that reads "Finally, she’s out"

"I don’t know anything about Whitmire but I’m for anyone who wins over Lee," added another.

Some reactions also mocked the defeated lawmaker, referring to her behavior with the staff.

One user said, "I know she is CURSING that staff all the way out."

"Praying that her staffers are okay at this time," noted another.

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.