Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and California Gov. Gavin Newsom both visited Houston last weekend for separate political events ahead of next year’s midterm elections. Abbott hinted at a fourth-term run during a Sunday night event, while Newsom energized local Democrats on Saturday amid national debates over redistricting and party strategy.
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Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom of California visited Houston last weekend, highlighting rising tensions ahead of next year's midterm elections.
On Sunday night at East River 9 golf course, Abbott promised a “special announcement” from his campaign, which many believe signifies the start of his unprecedented fourth term as governor. Described as “a vision for the future of Texas,” hundreds of supporters and GOP officials attended.
Abbott declared, “Texas is the model for America,” at the ceremony. “We won’t retreat. We're boosting freedom, safety, and opportunity.”
California Gov. Gavin Newsom rallied Harris County Democrats in Houston the day before the announcement. Newsom's visit followed California's approval of Democratic-leaning congressional maps in response to Texas Republicans' redistricting plans, which are under federal court scrutiny.
“Democracy doesn’t work when one party tries to lock in power by rewriting the rules,” Newsom told the audience. “We’re showing what fairness and representation look like in California and supporting Texans fighting for it.”
The governors' clashing performances underlined political differences and their rising national reputations. Abbott and Newsom are prospective 2028 presidential candidates for their parties.
Although they didn't meet in Houston, the governors have sparred recently. Newsom has slammed Abbott for sending the Texas National Guard to Chicago and for aggressive redistricting. Abbott said Newsom is “grandstanding from across state lines” and “failing California’s working families.”
Other prominent Texas Republicans planned to be in Houston. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Senate candidate, will attend a Turning Point USA event at the University of Houston on Tuesday. Patrick offered $1 million to expand conservative groups in Texas schools.
Abbott and Newsom's weekend trips showed how Houston, one of the nation's most diverse and politically significant cities, remains at the center of politics.
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