The Rev. Frederick Haynes III, a prominent Dallas pastor and Democratic nominee, is projected to win the special election for Texas's 30th Congressional District, according to preliminary results from Decision Desk HQ. He will succeed Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas), who vacated the seat after winning a Senate race.
Haynes defeated Republican Everett Jackson in a district that the Cook Political Report rates as solidly Democratic. The victory was widely expected, given the district's strong Democratic lean and Haynes's decisive primary win in March, where he captured 72.62 percent of the vote.
Pastor and Progressive Leader
Haynes is the lead pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, a congregation with roughly 13,000 members. His political and social activism has deep roots. In February 2024, he briefly led the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the civil rights organization founded by the Rev. Jesse Jackson, before stepping down three months later. At the time, he said he remained dedicated to the organization's mission and the broader fight for social justice.
Crockett, who endorsed Haynes, has known him for years—he was her pastor. The Intercept reported in February that Crockett backed Haynes despite some policy disagreements, notably on Israel's military actions in Gaza. Crockett voted in favor of U.S. military aid to Israel, while Haynes has taken a more critical stance. In January, he told WFAA that "if it's genocide, then Christ is against it," adding, "If it's in Gaza, he's against it."
Haynes addressed the divergence in an interview with The Intercept, saying, "Every leader approaches things differently, and I greatly respect Congresswoman Crockett's work and approach. My worldview and my positions are deeply rooted in my community, and the struggles I see those around me experiencing on a daily basis. Our community is justice minded here in Dallas."
District Profile
The 30th District spans parts of Dallas and Tarrant counties, encompassing most of Dallas. It is one of the most Democratic districts in Texas, according to the Cook Political Report's 2025 analysis. The seat has been held by Democrats for decades, and Haynes's victory continues that streak.
Haynes's win comes amid a broader political landscape where Texas Democrats have been making gains in urban areas. His focus on social justice and community-based activism is expected to resonate with the district's diverse electorate.
As he prepares to take office, Haynes will join a Democratic caucus that is navigating a narrow majority. His progressive platform, including his stance on Gaza, could position him as a vocal advocate for a more critical U.S. policy toward Israel.
For more on recent Texas House races, see Sell's win in the 19th District and Allred's return to the House. The election also took place as the Justice Department launched unprecedented election monitoring across the country.
