Former WWE wrestler, Trump administration officials and congressman's widow are among 23 candidates in Texas House race

A crowded congressional special election in Texas' 6th District could give Republicans a first look at Donald Trump's staying power in the party ahead of the 2022 midterm elections. The race also gives Democrats a chance to compete after falling short of their 2020 goals in the state. 

Twenty-three candidates, including 11 Republicans and 10 Democrats, have jumped into the race to succeed Republican Ron Wright, who died in February from COVID-19 and lung cancer. He had just won reelection in November by almost  9 points.  All the candidates will appear on the same ballot on May 1 and the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, will move on to a summer runoff if no candidate cracks 50%.