HOUSTON – Democrat Marvalette Hunter, a successful businesswoman, community leader, and former Chief of Staff to the late Congressman Sylvester Turner, announced her candidacy today for Congress in Texas District 38 in Northwest Houston. 

 

Hunter is running to unseat Republican Wesley Hunt and return the U.S. Congress to Democratic control. She will be on the ballot in the March 3, 2026 Democratic primary election and in the November 3, 2026 general election.

 

Hunter said: 

 

“We need a real break from the culture wars and the chaos – so we can focus on keeping a roof over our heads, getting decent health care, and making sure our kids have a real shot at college and a better life. 

 

“We need room to breathe – so we can take care of our families without constant pressure of worrying about crime or the next big storm. We need leaders in Congress who will fight for good jobs, healthy families, and safe streets – and against cuts to Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, and services for our veterans.

 

“Congress may have lost its way, but I have not.”

 

In addition to her government experience, Hunter has more than 30 years’ experience in public policy, regional planning, affordable housing, economic development and finance. She owns a real estate development firm that builds apartment communities and has previously served as Chief Development Officer for Harris County Housing Authority and Vice President of Community Lending for a Seattle-based bank acquired by JPMorgan Chase.

 

Unlike the incumbent, Marvalette Hunter has lived in what is now District 38 for more than 20 years. She’s raised her children here, worshipped here, and served her neighbors through years of volunteer work. This isn’t just a district to her — it’s home. She has a real stake in what happens here, and she’s ready to fight for it.

 

Marvalette is a member of Fallbrook Church, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Jack and Jill of America, and American Leadership Forum. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees of the Rockwell Fund. 

 

Marvalette is married to Dr. Newal Hunter, a 20-year retired veteran (Army) and educator. They have two children, who are both college students.