Former Houston Mayor Turner and Texas Rep. Jarvis Johnson interested in replacing Sheila Jackson Lee in Congress after her death

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Two potential candidates have emerged as Harris County Democrats search for someone to replace the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, who died of pancreatic cancer last Friday.

The video above is from a previous report: Remembering U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee: Community leaders react to congresswoman’s passing

Lee’s death at age 74 created a vacancy in Texas’ 18th Congressional District for the first time in decades, and former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner is among those interested in succeeding him.

On Tuesday, Turner told ABC13’s Miya Shay that he was “seriously considering” a run for the congresswoman’s vacant seat.

In January, he completed two terms as mayor of Houston and served for decades before that in the Texas House of Representatives.

The former mayor said he is exploring his options, adding that he will soon become a grandfather. He believes the community needs strong, consistent leadership and Lee’s work should be continued.

RELATED: Friends remember U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee as hard worker, ‘Wonder Woman’

Harris County Democratic Party leaders will likely announce a selection meeting after the late congresswoman’s funeral.

Another potential candidate is Texas Rep. Jarvis D. Johnson, who also announced Tuesday his intention to run for the legislative seat.

“Just as Joe Biden passed the torch to a willing and able candidate, I am ready to bring cohesion and strength as we fight for the 18th District against Republican rule,” Johnson said in a statement.

The precinct chairs of District 18 will decide on the nominee by August 18, because the Democratic National Convention begins in Chicago on August 19.

SEE ALSO: What Happens on the Ballot Without Sheila Jackson Lee After Her Death?