HOUSTON – Sixteen candidates are vying to represent Houston’s 18th Congressional District, a seat left vacant after the passing of Congressman Sylvester Turner in March. Among them is Carmen Maria Montiel, a businesswoman, former journalist, and the leading Republican candidate in the race.

Montiel, who has lived in Houston since 1991, says she’s running because the city’s problems have persisted for decades despite its growth.

Jolanda Jones says her campaign for Houston’s 18th District is personal

“Although the city has grown, the problems have never gotten better,” Montiel said. “They keep on getting worse. And especially in District 18, I see that the district was neglected for over 30 years.”

Born in Venezuela, Montiel has made Houston her home for more than three decades. A mothe

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