Robert Slater

Robert Slater (Democratic Party) ran in a special election to the U.S. House to represent Texas' 18th Congressional District. He will not appear on the ballot for the special general election on November 4, 2025.

Biography

Robert Slater was born in Houston, Texas. His career experience includes working as a business executive, executive chef, restaurant owner, and business mentor.^[1]

Elections

2025

Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.

General election

The general election will occur on November 4, 2025.

Special general election for U.S. House Texas District 18

The following candidates are running in the special general election for U.S. House Texas District 18 on November 4, 2025.

		Candidate
	Submit photo	Feldon Bonner II (D)
		Amanda Edwards (D)
		Stephen Huey (D)
		Jolanda Jones (D)
		Isaiah Martin (D)
		Christian Menefee (D)
		Valencia Williams (D)
		Theodis Daniel (R)
	Submit photo	Ollie Knox (R)
		Carmen Montiel (R)
	Submit photo	Carter Page (R)
	Submit photo	Ronald Whitfield (R)
	Submit photo	Tammie Rochester (G)
	Submit photo	Reyna Anderson (Independent)
		Vince Duncan (Independent)
	Submit photo	George Foreman (Independent)

	There are no incumbents in this race.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

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2024

Texas' 18th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 5 Republican primary)

Texas' 18th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 5 Democratic primary)

General election

General election for U.S. House Texas District 18

Sylvester Turner defeated Lana Centonze, Vince Duncan, and Kevin Dural in the general election for U.S. House Texas District 18 on November 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Sylvester Turner (D)	69.4	151,834
	Lana Centonze (R)	30.5	66,810
	Vince Duncan (Independent) (Write-in)	0.0	62
	Kevin Dural (Independent) (Write-in)	0.0	14

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 218,720
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Ed Atkinson (Veteran's Party)
Sheila Jackson Lee (D)

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 18

Incumbent Sheila Jackson Lee defeated Amanda Edwards and Robert Slater (Unofficially withdrew) in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 18 on March 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Sheila Jackson Lee	60.0	23,629
	Amanda Edwards	37.3	14,668
	Robert Slater (Unofficially withdrew)	2.7	1,059

	Incumbents are bolded and underlined. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 39,356
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Jasmine Blue (D)
Isaiah Martin (D)

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Texas District 18

Lana Centonze defeated Aaron Hermes in the Republican primary for U.S. House Texas District 18 on March 5, 2024.

	Candidate	%	Votes
✔	Lana Centonze	53.3	6,202
	Aaron Hermes	46.7	5,438

	There were no incumbents in this race. The results have been certified. Source	Total votes: 11,640
= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.
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Endorsements

Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Slater in this election.

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

Robert Slater did not complete Ballotpedia's 2025 Candidate Connection survey.

2024

Robert Slater completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Slater's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Expand all | Collapse all

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I'm Robert Slater, and I'm running for Congress in Houston's 18th District. My campaign is focused on changing the narrative and working towards a brighter future for our community. My vision is to create an inclusive society where everyone has equal access to education, healthcare and other fundamental needs. I believe that by working together, we can build a better future for all.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Entrepreneurship opportunities/Jobs and wages
Mental Health
2nd chance at life initiatives for veterans, homelessness and individual with criminal records

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Mental health support and eradicating the stigmas surrounding the struggles of 20% Americans that suffer from its effects. This includes veterans dealing with PTSD, our youth struggling to find support as they find their way in life and even victims of acts of crime that is left to cope with trauma.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

My father. Grew up in the foster system during the Jim Crow era and eventually joined the military to establish his American dream.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Forest Gump. Those that are misunderstood the most, will have the greatest impact in life.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Integrity, transparency and the ability to relate to the people that you represent.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

A Fighter. I've made mistakes in life, but never viewed my life as a mistake. I relate and understand people that have struggled, dealt with failures, homelessness, mental health, joblessness and having your butt-kicked by life, and then overcoming those things by believing, learning and growing. Believing in you when no one else does is the greatest love of all, and that love makes all of the difference.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

Ensuring the priorities and issues of the constituents that they represent are fought for diligently.

What legacy would you like to leave?

To be a living example that you are the author of your story. Nothing or no one can write your book. Every day you wake, you are adding lines to the pages and the final chapter isn't final until you say so!

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

9/11, 18 years old

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Event Chef, 3 years

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

Forest Gump

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

Cuffin by Beyonce. My mother sings it everyday. Do not know why, and do not want to find out why.

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

Coming out of prison with restrictions. Today, I can own multiple businesses, and be extremely successful, yet I am not able to get an apartment in my name. I cannot get a loan for a business. So I had to take the longer route to my accomplishments. If you were a dancer in college to pat tuition or a victim of domestic violence, a war veteran or a drug addict. That was a chapter in your life that made you a stronger person. A chapter in a book does not tell the whole story of the novel,

What qualities does the U.S. House of Representatives possess that makes it unique as an institution?

The ability to engage on the front lines of the district they represent. To hear and educate their constituents and their counterparts. People over party should be the heart of the House.

Do you believe that it's beneficial for representatives to have previous experience in government or politics?

No, You must have the experience of life to be qualified. The experience of struggles, doubt, sacrifice and overcoming challenges. That is the spirit of America. You must be able to relate!

What do you perceive to be the United States’ greatest challenges as a nation over the next decade?

Entitlements, Social security is not secure putting the next generation of retirees at risk which increase the burden on following generations.

Do you believe that two years is the right term length for representatives?

Yes

What are your thoughts on term limits?

Believe no politician should serve no more than 8 years.

Is there a particular representative, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

John Mccain. Though he was a republican, he sided with democrats on issues that was right. He put the better good of America above party and self. More importantly, he defended President Obama from racist attacks displaying a level of integrity that is missing in today's politics.

Both sitting representatives and candidates for office hear many personal stories from the residents of their district. Is there a story that you’ve heard that you found particularly touching, memorable, or impactful?

Of a young college student afraid that his time in college is a waste because their is not enough mentors to set his generation up for success. He believed that all he has to learn on is experience which carried more weight than his diploma. That is sad to hear. Students are doing their part for a better future only to have the outdated and out of touch politicians in office today destroy their future while at the same time not willing to prepare and ensure the next generation receives its inheritance.

Tell us your favorite joke.

I laugh at everything. It keeps you young

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Compromise is a must. No one party can walk away from the table with all of the food when everyone in the house must eat.

The Constitution says that all bills for raising revenue must originate in the House. What role would this power play in your priorities if elected?

A major role. Revenue raised is by way of taxes. Who gets taxed? The middle class and the poor while the wealthy gets tax breaks. The people who works the hardest, pays the most. Where is the incentive in that?

How should the U.S. House use its investigative powers?

Based on facts, fairness and legitimacy.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

T.A.E.C.A Foundation
My Heart HBCU

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Campaign website

Slater’s campaign website stated the following:

“

Veterans
We owe our heroes more than a thank you for their service. Veterans have one of the highest suicide and homelessness rates in our country. We must create the necessary transitioning programs that effectively allow a soldier and their family to get acclimated into civilian life by ensuring that he/she/they have the skills, training, and support they may need on a continuing basis, ensuring a successful post-military life. We must address PTSD and create supporting resources and education for military families, strengthening the foundation within the soldiers' closest environment. I believe veterans have paid the ultimate price to our country and should be 100% federally tax-exempt. I also believe veterans should be a protected class, making it a federal offense to initiate harm to them, just as it would be for a person in Congress.

Economic Infrastructure
Houston has the highest number of LLC registrations in the country, and out of that great number, 68% are minorities. However, Houston falls to the bottom of the list for minority-owned venture capital, financing, business development, and funding. I believe that the government can help close this gap and create the greatest investment opportunity for an unprecedented demographic. Partnering with the SBA and HUD to develop campuses that allow minority entrepreneurs to utilize subsidized office space, receive mentoring and business development skills, while collaborating with the private sector to offer incubator initiatives, will reduce investment risk while increasing opportunities. This approach aims to create a culture of generational wealth and provide a positive culture shift with ramifications benefiting the African American community.

Healthcare
Universal healthcare is attainable, achievable, and the right thing to do. It is a right. Taking the war to health insurance special interests and examining whom they support to prevent universal healthcare is ground one. On average, there are 3-4 liquor stores within every 1-mile radius in District 18, but there's a lack of Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. Nutritional education, along with access to healthy and fresh foods at an affordable cost, is where we must begin in the preventative health aspect. Access to healthier eating, clinics, recreational programs, and senior care are all components to eliminating our health crises. Companies must offer paid time off for illnesses, including mental health, so that Americans do not have to choose between their health or a paycheck. Prescription drug prices should be capped, and the market should be opened to international suppliers to increase competitiveness and drive down costs.

Immigration:
I support Congress doing its job and addressing immigration once and for all. Being punitive to any human seeking better opportunities is inhumane. We are a country of migrants, inclusive to the contribution different cultures weave into our daily lives. There are rules of engagement and guardrails per the Geneva accords that dictate acts in war to ensure humanity sustains itself during any crisis. The separation of families, placing harmful floating barriers in the Rio Grande, and more lack the threshold that sustains humanity and our moral commitment. I personally believe the practice of shipping migrants from Texas to New York, Chicago, and anywhere else is no different than kidnapping or trafficking and should be an FBI review versus the Justice Department filing suit. I believe these acts are criminal. Congress must address this issue head-on. Securing our borders in the south and north is fundamental to our national security, but increasing ways and means for immigrants to legally enter in a timely manner is key.

Criminal Justice
We all know that an overhaul, decriminalization, and bail reform are crucial to our American justice system. I want to bring the focus to the recidivism side. When a person is released from prison and back into society, what opportunities exist for them to become a productive citizen? The State of Texas has over 4,500 restrictions for those with a criminal record. I, myself, can be a successful businessman and even run for Congress, but I cannot get an apartment in my name or secure loans for my businesses. If a person has paid their debt to society, why should the invoices keep coming? I believe we should have a national bond program that allows individuals with a criminal record to buy into a system, similar to healthcare insurance, enabling employers or housing agents who would be hesitant to take a chance on someone with a record to feel protected against risk. If damages occur from the individual, then the business may file a claim and be compensated for their losses. Most ex-convicts just need the opportunity to be successful and become productive in this society. Why would we want to restrict that? This country was built on redemption from its wrongs, so we must afford that same spirit to its citizens.

Mental Health
As a community, there are too many burdens economically, culturally, environmentally, and domestically that we deal with without knowing how to address them. Removing the stigma of mental health and addressing awareness can ultimately change a multitude of challenges our community faces. I want to build and provide resources and services in the heart of our communities so that those suffering may feel supported in identifying what they may be dealing with. Most importantly, I aim to educate our community on mental health awareness and support loved ones when needed. This is crucial for our young generation, where studies say 68% of minority teens are suffering from some form of a negative mental health marker. Discussing, educating, and supporting will have a positive impact on negative statistics such as crime traits, drug usage, self-esteem, education, and more.

Education
Tuition should be discussed as what it truly is: an investment. Supporting our young generation while transitioning in this phase of their life is critical to fostering and preparing them for not just their future but the country's future. Young Americans should not enter our workforce burdened with debt from education on top of the debt that failed leadership has imposed on them through our national debt. I believe the only educational cost should pertain to higher collegiate degrees such as master’s or doctorates. I am not a supporter of charter schools. Education should not be shopped; the investment should be more universally beneficial to all students regardless of their zip code. ^[2]

”

—Robert Slater’s campaign website (2024)^[3]

Campaign finance summary

Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.

Robert Slater campaign contribution history
Year	Office	Status	Contributions	Expenditures
2025*	U.S. House Texas District 18	Withdrew general	$0	N/A**
2024*	U.S. House Texas District 18	Lost primary	$0	N/A**
Grand total			$0	N/A**
Sources: OpenSecrets, Federal Elections Commission *This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
* Data from this year may not be complete
** Data on expenditures is not available for this election cycle
Note: Totals above reflect only available data.

External links

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Candidate

U.S. House Texas District 18

Personal

Footnotes

↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on December 8, 2023
↑ Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
↑ Houston First, “Pillars,” accessed January 19, 2024

[show]

Texas' current delegation to the United States Congress

Senators

John Cornyn (R)

Ted Cruz (R)

Representatives

District 1

Nathaniel Moran (R)

District 2

Daniel Crenshaw (R)

District 3

Keith Self (R)

District 4

Pat Fallon (R)

District 5

Lance Gooden (R)

District 6

Jake Ellzey (R)

District 7

Lizzie Fletcher (D)

District 8

Morgan Luttrell (R)

District 9

Al Green (D)

District 10

Michael McCaul (R)

District 11

August Pfluger (R)

District 12

Craig Goldman (R)

District 13

Ronny Jackson (R)

District 14

Randy Weber (R)

District 15

Monica De La Cruz (R)

District 16

Veronica Escobar (D)

District 17

Pete Sessions (R)

District 18

Vacant

District 19

Jodey Arrington (R)

District 20

Joaquin Castro (D)

District 21

Chip Roy (R)

District 22

Troy Nehls (R)

District 23

Tony Gonzales (R)

District 24

Beth Van Duyne (R)

District 25

Roger Williams (R)

District 26

Brandon Gill (R)

District 27

Michael Cloud (R)

District 28

Henry Cuellar (D)

District 29

Sylvia Garcia (D)

District 30

Jasmine Crockett (D)

District 31

John Carter (R)

District 32

Julie Johnson (D)

District 33

Marc Veasey (D)

District 34

Vicente Gonzalez (D)

District 35

Greg Casar (D)

District 36

Brian Babin (R)

District 37

Lloyd Doggett (D)

District 38

Wesley Hunt (R)

Republican Party (27)

Democratic Party (12)

Vacancies (1)

[bio-1] Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on December 8, 2023

[quotedisclaimer-2] Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.

[3] Houston First, “Pillars,” accessed January 19, 2024

[1]

[2]

[3]

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Robert Slater

Contents

Biography

Elections

2025

General election

Special general election for U.S. House Texas District 18

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Endorsements

2024

General election

General election for U.S. House Texas District 18

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Democratic primary election

Democratic primary for U.S. House Texas District 18

Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. House Texas District 18

Endorsements

Campaign themes

2025

Ballotpedia survey responses

2024

Campaign website

Campaign finance summary

See also

External links

Footnotes

Information about voting

2025 Elections

2026 Elections

2024 Election analysis

Trending

Public Policy

Information for candidates

Get Engaged

Services

Additional analysis

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