With the March primary approaching, Texas Democrats are beginning to see a frontrunner emerge in the race for governor. According to new polling, State Rep. Gina Hinojosa is leading a crowded Democratic field as voters prepare to select a nominee who would likely face Gov. Greg Abbott in November.
The poll, conducted by the Barbara Jordan Public Policy Research and Survey Center at Texas Southern University, surveyed 1,600 likely Democratic primary voters. Results show 41% of respondents plan to vote for Hinojosa, giving her a significant early advantage. Houston businessman Andrew White followed with 6%, while former congressman Chris Bell received 5% support.
“I don’t take anything for granted,” Hinojosa said, as reported by KXAN. “It is a feeling of satisfaction to know that my work over almost a decade has been appreciated by Democrats across this state.”
Hinojosa, a former Austin school board president, has built her profile around education issues.
As KXAN reported, she has been a vocal opponent of Gov. Abbott’s Education Savings Account proposal and has emphasized her record supporting public schools and working Texans.
“I have fought hard for our public schools. I have fought hard for working Texans,” Hinojosa said. “And what the polling shows is that people have noticed and people appreciate it, and I’m just so grateful for that.”
Despite Hinojosa’s lead, the race remains fluid. The poll found that 42% of likely Democratic voters are still undecided, leaving room for other candidates to gain ground.
Undecided Voters Leave Door Open for Challengers
White, who describes himself as an “independent Democrat,” aiming to unite progressives, moderates, and independents. “I’m different. I’m a businessman, and I’m ready to do the job,” White said.
Bell, the Democratic nominee for governor in 2006, said his decision to run again is driven by concerns about public education.
“I really do believe that Greg Abbott and others have basically declared war on public school education,” Bell said, adding that preparing students for college or the workforce would be his top priority.
Also in the race is Bobby Cole, a firefighter and farmer, who described himself as “an everyday ordinary Texan” and argues that state leadership has focused too heavily on big donors and corporations.
The Democratic and Republican primaries will be held March 3. February 2 is the deadline to register to vote.
