Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Sunday that he will seek a record-setting fourth term as governor, vowing to protect “what we built” and lead the state into its “glorious future.” During a speech in Houston, Abbott highlighted his decade-long tenure, emphasizing conservative achievements in affordability, education, border security, and other priorities.
Abbott proposed five policy measures aimed at curbing local property tax increases, including allowing voters to abolish school property taxes, requiring two-thirds approval for any tax hikes, and reducing the appraisal cap from 10% to 3%. He also promoted private school vouchers, public school funding reforms, and restrictions on diversity initiatives in schools. Additionally, he cited stricter bail practices, border security measures, and healthcare and housing regulations as key accomplishments.
Abbott claimed Texas has ranked first in job creation and business-friendly policies during his time in office. He warned of “out-of-control property taxes” and pledged to return power to voters. Meanwhile, Republican Pete Chambers and Mark Goloby have declared their bids for the governorship, while Democrats Bobby Cole, Andrew White, Ben Flores, Nick Pappas, and Texas State Rep. Gina Hinojosa have also announced candidacies.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom, who recently secured approval for a constitutional amendment to lower property taxes, urged increased party support ahead of next year’s midterm elections. Abbott, however, left a defiant message to Democrats: “They cannot buy us, they cannot beat us, we will see them at the ballot box, and we will win.”