Hinojosa becomes Texas' first Latina governor

Gina Hinojosa defeated incumbent Greg Abbott on Tuesday night to become the governor of Texas. The victory makes her the state's first Latina governor and the first Democrat to hold the office in 35 years. Ann Richards was the last Democrat to serve in the role, taking office in 1991.

Hinojosa received 52.8 percent of the vote, according to the Associated Press. She outperformed expectations in Collin and Denton counties. Both counties favored Donald Trump in the last three presidential elections. Her win was part of a wider Democratic performance in Texas, with James Talarico and Vikki Goodwin also winning key statewide races.

The campaign focused on affordability, public education, and the rapid expansion of AI data centers across the state. Hinojosa deliberately avoided 'culture war' issues. In her victory speech, she told supporters that the government should belong to the people, not the highest bidder or the most powerful lobbyist.

Hinojosa is scheduled to take office on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2027. She has promised to fire State Commissioner of Education Mike Morath on her first day. This move signals an immediate overhaul of the state's education system. She acknowledged that she will face obstacles during her four-year term.

Political maneuvering began before the inauguration. Texas State Rep. Brian Harrison called for Abbott to convene a special session to limit the emergency powers Hinojosa will inherit. Abbott has not yet decided whether to hold the session. On Tuesday night, Hinojosa said Abbott called to congratulate her and offer help with the transition.

Republican leaders reacted sharply to the result. Outgoing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis labeled the loss a 'huge loss' for the party. President Trump, who endorsed Abbott, blamed the former governor's recent behavior. Trump said Abbott would not have lost if he had not become a RINO in the last six months of his political life.