Texas Gov. Greg Abbott launched his campaign Sunday for a record fourth term, promising to deliver sweeping property tax reforms and preserve what he called the state’s “conservative heritage.”
Speaking to supporters in Houston, Abbott framed his re-election bid as a fight to protect the “Texas model” low taxes, limited government and a strong economy from what he described as “far-left, progressive insanity.” The Republican governor, who has held office since 2015, enters the 2026 race with approximetly $87 million in campaign funds and the potential to become the longest-serving governor in Texas history.
Abbott’s speech centered on a bold plan to overhaul property taxes, a perennial concern for Texas homeowners. His proposals include eliminating the school district portion of property taxes through a constitutional amendment, capping annual appraisal growth at 3%, and requiring a two-thirds majority of local voters to approve any property tax increases.
“Texans work hard for what they earn, and they deserve to keep more of it,” Abbott said.
“We’re going to put power back where it belongs, in the hands of the people, not the government.”
The governor also vowed to expand school choice, strengthen border security, and continue efforts to ban diversity, equity and inclusion programs at public universities.
Critics quickly questioned how Abbott’s proposals would impact school funding, which relies heavily on local property taxes. Education advocates warned that eliminating those revenues without a replacement could create deep shortfalls in classrooms across the state.
Political analysts say Abbott’s focus on tax relief and conservative social policy could help solidify his support among Republican voters, though his approval ratings have dipped in recent months. If reelected, Abbott would surpass former Gov. Rick Perry’s tenure as the longest-serving governor in Texas history.
Abbott’s campaign sets the stage for a high-stakes 2026 race likely to feature debates over education, taxes, immigration and the cost of living issues that have defined his decade-long tenure in office.