Gina Hinojosa defeats Greg Abbott to become Texas governor

Gina Hinojosa defeated incumbent Greg Abbott in the Texas gubernatorial election on Tuesday night, according to an Associated Press race call. The result ends more than three decades of continuous Republican control of the governor's mansion in Austin.

Hinojosa, a state representative, secured victory with 42% of the vote compared to Abbott's 40% as precincts reported. The Associated Press called the race after 67.1% of precincts reported results. Hinojosa becomes the first Democrat to hold the office since Ann Richards left her term in 1995.

Abbott, who first took office in 2015, sought a fifth term after leading the state for over a decade. His administration enacted changes to border security protocols, public education standards, and state budget spending during his tenure. He previously served as lieutenant governor before moving to the top executive post.

The governor of Texas holds the power to sign or veto legislation passed by the state legislature. The role also includes appointing state officials and setting the legislative agenda for lawmakers during regular sessions. The winner of this election will take office in January 2027.

Hinojosa challenged Abbott as the Democratic Party aimed to regain the governorship after losing the office in 1990. The previous Democratic governor, Ann Richards, served from 1991 to 1995. Hinojosa's win shifts the balance of power in the state capital to the Democratic party for the next four years.