What This Democrat’s Surge in Texas Says About the Midterms

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa emphasizes the urgency of her campaign in Texas, where she faces Republican incumbent Greg Abbott in a tightly contested race. Hinojosa, a state representative, aims to become the first Latino governor of Texas and the first Democrat to hold the office since the 1990s. She highlights the significance of the upcoming midterms, noting that her victory could reshape the political landscape in a state where Democrats have struggled for years.

During her campaign, Hinojosa connects with voters by addressing pressing issues such as public education funding, economic disparities, and the influence of tech giants on local communities. She recounts her journey into politics, sparked by a desire to protect public schools, and expresses determination to reach a broad coalition of voters, including disaffected Republicans. Hinojosa's strategy focuses on a populist message that resonates with Texans frustrated by rising costs and a perceived lack of representation.

Hinojosa also discusses her personal experiences with abortion, framing it as a critical health care issue rather than a cultural battleground. She aims to advocate for women's rights and health care access, asserting that current policies endanger lives. As she campaigns across Texas, Hinojosa seeks to inspire a sense of empowerment among voters, emphasizing the potential for change in a state long dominated by conservative leadership.

Gina Hinojosa, the Democratic nominee for governor, on her appeal to MAGA voters and her refusal to engage in the “culture wars.”