Jasmine Crockett and Jane Hope Hamilton headed to runoff in Democratic primary for U.S. House District 30

By David Sentendrey and Steven Dial/FOX 4 News

DALLAS – There will be a runoff in the Democratic primary for a congressional seat that represents much of Dallas County.

State Rep. Jasmine Crockett took an early lead in the field of nine in U.S. House District 30.

And with nearly all the ballots county, she does not have 50% of the vote and will likely head to a runoff against longtime party worker Jane Hope Hamilton.

“I think the fact that I actually have a record. You know, somebody who is running for their very first time for any position, running for Congress, they haven’t had to actually establish a record. That is something that I have and the people know that,” Crockett said.

“The voters will see that I’m ready to serve in Congress as their next member on day one as opposed to my opponent,” Hamilton said.

This congressional seat opened up after Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson announced she was retiring from Congress.

Congresswoman Johnson has served nearly 30 years in Congress and she endorsed Crockett back in November.

Johnson missed her last State of the Union and spent the day campaigning and going to polls with Crockett.

Her endorsement carried a lot of weight for Crockett, who made a name for herself as one of the Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to deny Republicans the ability to pass a voting bill in Texas, which ultimately passed.

Tuesday night, Crockett was talking to supporters and watching the results come in with them. She had the name recognition and late money to stand out in this race.

Hamilton was endorsed by Rep. Marc Veasey after she served as his chief of staff. She also got endorsements from other prominent Texas Democrats.

Hamilton knew she was the underdog against Crockett, but with such a crowded field, she was hoping for a runoff.

Hamilton gathered with dozens of supporters Tuesday night and thanked them for their support.

“I want to thank every single person who trusted me with their vote. Voters responded to my lived experience as a mother and my professional experience as a longtime congressional staff. I have walked the path of commitment to our community for over 20 years,” Hamilton said.

There will be a runoff in the Republican race in this district as well. It’s a tight race between James Rodgers and James “J-Frank” Harris.

This district, which covers much of the city of Dallas, especially the southern sector, and other parts of Dallas County, is considered a safe seat for Democrats.