U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, an icon of Houston politics, dies at 74 after cancer battle

First elected to represent the 18th Congressional District in 1994, Jackson Lee quickly rose to prominence within Houston’s congressional delegation, securing overwhelming victories, election after election. She became known as a fierce advocate for women and people of color and made a national name for herself with iconic House floor speeches and perennial media appearances.

She was poised to secure a 15th term in office this fall after achieving a decisive victory in the March primary against upstart challenger Amanda Edwards.

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