Arlington, TX – With less than a month left before Texas voters head to the polls, Governor Greg Abbott intensified his criticism of Democratic challenger State Rep. Gina Hinojosa, accusing her of jeopardizing public safety across the Lone Star State. Abbott, speaking after a meeting with law‑enforcement officials, said Hinojosa’s record on public safety is “reckless” and that her votes have put Texans at risk.
Abbott’s public‑safety arguments
Abbott highlighted several votes he says demonstrate Hinojosa’s opposition to law‑enforcement priorities. He noted that she voted against legislation targeting human trafficking, opposed a bill aimed at cracking down on sanctuary cities, and helped block a proposed constitutional amendment that would have denied bail to illegal immigrants charged with serious crimes. Abbott also accused Hinojosa of supporting efforts to defund the police, calling such a stance “unacceptable to the safety of our state” and “not Texas.”
Hinojosa’s response
Hinojosa’s campaign countered that she has a strong public‑safety record and released a television ad featuring law‑enforcement officers who criticized Abbott for using police as political props and threatening their funding. The ad emphasized her commitment to stronger borders and safer communities. The Dallas Morning News sought additional comment from her campaign but did not receive a response at the time of publication.
Abbott touts his own record
During the same event, Abbott reminded voters of his own law‑enforcement initiatives, including the creation of a repeat‑offender task force, withholding state funding from cities that attempt to defund police, and securing convictions for human traffickers. He framed these actions as evidence of his dedication to protecting Texans and supporting officers on the front lines.
Campaign finance snapshot
Recent campaign‑finance filings show a stark disparity in spending between the two candidates. From July 1 through September 24, Abbott’s campaign has poured more than $70 million into his re‑election effort, while Hinojosa has spent roughly $12 million in the same period. The financial gap underscores the incumbent’s ability to amplify his message statewide.
Polls hint at a tighter race
Some polling data released this week suggest the governor’s race may be closer than many expected. While the numbers are not definitive, they indicate that Abbott’s lead could be narrowing as the election approaches. Abbott’s campaign has not disputed the poll methodology and continues to stress that his record on public safety and strong fiscal stewardship remain the decisive factors for Texas voters.
What’s at stake
The 2026 governor’s race will determine the direction of Texas policy on law‑enforcement funding, immigration enforcement, and public‑safety legislation for the next four years. Abbott’s supporters argue that his proven track record and substantial campaign resources position him to continue advancing policies that protect families and uphold constitutional rights. Hinojosa’s supporters contend that her legislative priorities reflect a more compassionate approach to immigration and community policing.
As the campaign enters its final stretch, both candidates will likely intensify outreach to voters across the state, emphasizing their differing visions for Texas’s future.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
