WASHINGTON, D.C. — Texas Governor Greg Abbott launched a late‑stage attack on Democratic challenger Gina Hinojosa, calling her “the number one most radical leftist” in the state House, just weeks before Election Day.

In a rally held at the Texas State Capitol on Tuesday, Abbott said, “My opponent is actually the farthest left candidate on the entire ticket. She makes Talarico look almost conservative.” The governor’s remarks came after Hinojosa secured 48% of the vote in the 2024 primary, trailing Republican nominee Kevin Talarico by 12 points.

Hinojosa’s platform centers on a 25% tax increase for households earning more than $250,000, expanded Medicaid coverage, and a $10 per gallon tax on gasoline to fund public transit. According to her campaign website, the proposal would raise an estimated $3.2 billion in state revenue over the next decade.

Business leaders are watching the race closely, as a shift toward Hinojosa’s agenda could reshape Texas’s regulatory landscape for energy and healthcare. A spokesperson for the Texas Chamber of Commerce noted that the governor’s attack may influence undecided voters in key suburban districts that are projected to have a 2.7% swing toward Democrats.