In March, Texas Democrats will pick a candidate likely to face Gov. Greg Abbott in November’s election, while the GOP primary is expected to produce an easy nominee.
March will decide Texas Democrats’ nominee, with a recent poll showing State Rep. Gina Hinojosa leading 41% of likely primary voters. The remaining 59% is split among Andrew White, Chris Bell, and Bobby Cole.
Poll Snapshot
The Barbara Jordan Public Policy Research and Survey Center at Texas Southern University surveyed 1,600 likely Democratic primary voters. Results: Hinojosa 41%, Andrew White 6%, Chris Bell 5%, and 42% undecided.
Candidates in Focus
Gina Hinojosa
Hinojosa, a former Austin school board president and vocal advocate for public schools, said, “I don’t take anything for granted,” “It is a feeling of satisfaction to know that my work over almost a decade has been appreciated by Democrats across this state,” she added. She also noted, “I have fought hard for our public schools. I have fought hard for working Texans. And what the polling shows is that people have noticed and people appreciate it, and I’m just so grateful for that,” Hinojosa said.
Andrew White
White, the son of former Governor Mark White, entered the race as an “independent Democrat.” He described his platform as “a Democrat who will unite progressives and moderates together and invite independence into our party.” White emphasized his business background, saying, “My dad used to say, if you want to have a different result, you’ve got to do something different,” White said. “Greg Abbott is undefeated running against politicians. I’m different. I’m a businessman, and I’m ready to do the job.” This is White’s second campaign; he lost a 2018 Democratic runoff to Lupe Valdez.
Chris Bell
Former congressman Chris Bell, who was the Democratic nominee in 2006, called himself a “recovering politician.” Bell said, “I really do believe that Greg Abbott and others have basically declared war on public school education, and public schools have been the keys to so many futures for Texans,” Bell said. He added, “[We need] to make sure that when kids graduate high school, they’re one of two things; either ready to go to college or ready to go to work. And I assure you that’s my number one goal,” Bell said.
Bobby Cole
Firefighter and farmer Bobby Cole described himself as “an everyday ordinary Texan.” He said, “I think we’ve been left behind by a leadership in Austin that is catered to their big donors and big corporations,” Cole said. “I have been a farmer. I’ve worked in warehouses and stocked shelves. I’ve been a career firefighter. And most importantly, I’ve been a husband and a father and a grandfather, and I’m concerned about the legacy that I’m leaving them,” Cole said. “That’s why I’m running for governor,” he added.
Election Timeline
The Democratic and Republican primaries will be held on March 3. Voters must register by February 2 to participate.
Key Takeaways
- Gina Hinojosa leads the Democratic field with 41% support in a 1,600-voter poll.
- 42% of likely voters remain undecided, offering a target for other candidates.
- The primary is scheduled for March 3, with a registration deadline of February 2.
