Texans Deserve Better Than Greg Abbott.

Summary

In an interview with Ben Meiselas, Texas Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa argued that her race against Governor Greg Abbott is competitive. She cited recent polls that she said put the candidates about one percentage point apart. Hinojosa described growing Democratic support as a response to dissatisfaction with the state’s direction rather than simple party loyalty. She also pointed to her primary vote total—twice Beto O’Rourke’s in 2018, despite facing eight opponents—as evidence of campaign momentum.

Hinojosa criticized Abbott’s record, saying Texans are struggling with healthcare costs, school funding, utility bills, and business failures. She argued that long-running Republican control has weakened accountability and that voters across party lines are increasingly frustrated.

Data Centers and State Policy

Hinojosa focused on the rapid growth of data centers. She said Abbott encouraged their expansion and approved generous tax breaks, while communities bear the costs of increased electricity and water use with few protections. She described Abbott’s recent shift in tone on data centers as politically motivated.

Hinojosa and the interviewer also criticized tax advantages for wealthy interests and alleged favoritism in state contracting.

Household Relief

Hinojosa proposed giving $1,500 to every Texas household from the state’s “rainy day” fund, arguing that government should deliver direct benefits to residents. She described meeting Texans who donate plasma as extra work to help cover their bills.

Voting Rights and Redistricting

Hinojosa made voting rights and redistricting central to her campaign. She warned that Republican-controlled redistricting could cost Democrats five current congressional seats and shape five additional seats Texas may gain after the next census. She said a governor should veto what she called rigged maps and urged people nationwide to pay attention to the Texas race.

Hinojosa closed by describing the election as a crucial opportunity for change and inviting people to support her campaign.

Presenters and contributors: Gina Hinojosa, Ben Meiselas