Texas state Rep. Gina Hinojosa, a Democrat hailing from South Texas, has announced her campaign for governor of Texas, aiming to challenge Republican Gov. Greg Abbott in the upcoming 2026 election. Hinojosa’s campaign launch comes as she enters a competitive Democratic primary, determined to advocate for the people of Texas against what she describes as the influence of billionaires and corporations driving up living costs and undermining essential services.
In a campaign video, Hinojosa, 51, expresses her commitment to the people of Texas, declaring, “I’m running for governor to work for you.” The seasoned attorney will officially kick off her campaign during a Blue Texas event in Brownsville, her hometown, a city located in the historically Democratic Rio Grande Valley. This region has witnessed a concerning trend of Republicans gaining traction among Latino voters in recent elections, making Hinojosa’s campaign especially significant.
Drawing inspiration from her familial roots, Hinojosa emphasizes resilience with a motivational phrase from her grandmother, “No te dejes,” translating to “Don’t let them [take advantage of you],” promising to actively oppose injustices faced by Texans.
While the road ahead poses challenges—considering that no Democrat has secured statewide office in Texas since 1994—Hinojosa’s candidacy reflects a renewed hope for the Democratic Party in a state traditionally dominated by Republicans. The 2024 presidential election saw Donald Trump win Texas by 13 points, and Abbott is seeking a fourth consecutive term as governor.
Democrats are eyeing the midterm elections with optimism, particularly in Senate races, where contentious primaries are expected. Hinojosa’s agenda is likely to center on education reform, a cause she has championed passionately throughout her political career. Having previously led the Austin ISD school board, her advocacy intensified when her son’s elementary school was threatened with closure due to budget cuts. She has been an outspoken critic of Abbott’s proposals for school vouchers, characterizing them as detrimental to the state’s educational system.
Hinojosa has also shown her commitment to Democratic causes by participating in efforts to hinder Republican redistricting initiatives earlier this year. Her campaign represents a pivotal moment for Texas Democrats, signaling a commitment to addressing issues affecting everyday Texans while rallying support from the diverse communities within the state.
As the election approaches, all eyes will be on Hinojosa and her strategies to reinvigorate Democratic hopes in Texas, which historically leans Republican.