After 30 Years of Republican Control, Democrat Gina Hinojosa Wins Race for Texas Governor, Ousting Greg Abbott

A historic change in Texas

Hinojosa’s victory brings an end to a long stretch of Republican governors in Texas. Abbott, 68, will not serve a fourth term after his defeat. Hinojosa, 52, grew up in the Rio Grande Valley and previously led the Austin school board. Her inauguration in January 2027 would mark two milestones: she would be the state’s first Latina governor and its first Democratic governor since Ann Richards, who left office in 1995.

Education and costs at center

She also said she would replace Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath with an educator. Morath is a software developer and investor.

Abbott’s case and next hurdles

Abbott campaigned on lowering property taxes and said his administration had made Texas safer, including by securing the border. Hinojosa’s win could bring a sharp change in the governor’s office, though the legislature is likely to remain Republican-led.

Before the election, Trinity University political science professor David Crockett said a Hinojosa victory would be seen as “an earthquake” after years of Republican statewide wins. He also warned that passing significant legislation would require agreement with lawmakers, which he said would not be easy.

Frustration with Washington

University of Houston political science lecturer Nancy Sims said before Election Day that a Democratic win in Texas would reflect anger toward Washington. She specifically pointed to discontent with the federal government and Donald Trump.

The remarks by Crockett and Sims were made before the election. Their comments described possible implications of a Democratic breakthrough, rather than results established by the race call.