Lina Hidalgo, the county judge of Harris County, Texas, has announced she will not seek re-election or any other office in 2026, ending her rising political career amid ongoing Republican attacks and political tensions in Texas.
Lina Hidalgo, the top elected official of Harris County, Texas, openly discussed her struggles with depression, which she had been dealing with for years. Her decision to seek treatment and her subsequent openness about her mental health have become a central part of her political identity, sparking discussions about the intersection of mental health and politics.
A criminal complaint has been filed against Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, accusing her of abuse of office, just a day after meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris. The complaint is related to a press conference where Hidalgo accused the district attorney of leaking search warrants related to an $11 million COVID-19 vaccine outreach contract. Hidalgo's comments were made on county property and livestreamed on official social media accounts. Three of Hidalgo's former staffers were previously indicted on felony charges related to the same contract. The complaint has been referred to the Texas Rangers for investigation.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo is facing a criminal abuse of office complaint that has been referred to the Texas Rangers. The complaint alleges that Hidalgo violated the law by implementing COVID-19 restrictions without proper authority and exceeding her powers as county judge. The Texas Rangers will now investigate the allegations against Hidalgo.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo announced that NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, will be renamed "NRG Stadium (Taylor's Version)" in honor of Taylor Swift's The Eras tour, which will take place at the venue for three nights. Banners with the temporary name will be hung at the stadium's north and south entrances. Swift's openers for the shows are Beabadoobee and Gracie Abrams.