Gina Hinojosa ousts Gov. Greg Abbott in Texas political earthquake
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Gina Hinojosa during a campaign rally in Dallas on Oct. 29. Photo: Alex Wong/Getty Images
Democrat Gina Hinojosa pulled off a stunning upset Tuesday, defeating three-term Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and becoming the state's first Latina governor, AP projects
Why it matters: The victory ends 32 years of Republican control of the governor's office in one of the nation's biggest GOP strongholds. It's a major breakthrough for Democrats who have spent decades trying to turn Texas blue.
- She will be the first woman to lead Texas since Democrat Ann Richards left office in 1995.
- Her victory comes after James Talarico defeated Republican Ken Paxton in Texas' closely watched U.S. Senate race — the first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate from Texas since Lloyd Bentsen in 1988.
- Abbott conceded to Hinojosa on Tuesday.
What they're saying: "We shocked the world tonight. With a Texas chip on our shoulder, we showed the world that anything is possible tonight," Hinojosa said Tuesday night.
- "It never bothered me that they doubted me, it bothered me that they doubted us."
The big picture: Hinojosa entered the race as a relatively unknown state lawmaker facing one of the nation's best-funded Republican incumbents. But she turned public frustration over education, affordability and Abbott's leadership into an unexpectedly competitive race.
- Abbott had never lost a general election, dating back to his first run for state Supreme Court in 1996.
Catch up quick: Hinojosa campaigned on strengthening public education, lowering costs for Texans and holding state leaders accountable.
- She made Abbott's signature private school voucher program and his record on public education central targets of her campaign.
By the numbers: Hinojosa raised $17.7 million in the final month covered by regular campaign finance filings, compared with $26 million for Abbott's political committee
What's next: Hinojosa takes office in January, but her ability to deliver on campaign promises — particularly education reform — will depend on the makeup of the Republican-dominated state Legislature.
- Even without legislative support, she could use her veto and appointment powers to influence state policy.
Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional developments and context.