Texas Gov. Greg Abbott formally announced his bid for a historic fourth term, emphasizing property tax reform and the protection of state values as central pillars of his campaign.
Abbott has served as governor of the Lone Star State since 2015 and is now seeking re-election in 2026, which could make him the longest-serving governor in Texas history, surpassing Rick Perry’s 14 years in the role.
Speaking to supporters in Houston, Abbott highlighted the unique identity of Texas and how it shapes the way the state works.
“Texas is not just another state. It’s our home. Our heritage. Texas is the heartbeat of this land we call America,” Abbott said, per Fox 4.
“As Texans, we will defend this state with every fiber of our being. We will protect what we built, finish what we started, and lead Texas into its glorious future.”
A centerpiece of Abbott’s campaign is an aggressive property tax reform plan, with the governor telling potential voters that it is “time to drive a stake through the heart of local property tax hikes for good.”
“We are going to turn the tables on local taxing authorities, put the power with the people, and put an end to out-of-control property taxes in Texas,” he added, per KHOU 11.
Prior to his speech, Abbott released a one-page rundown of his property tax plan, writing that “voters deserve the right to decide whether to abolish school district taxes.”
“Governor Greg Abbott has delivered the largest property tax relief ever provided by any governor in American history–$51 billion in relief for Texans this session alone,” states the synopsis, per The Dallas Morning News.
Abbott further framed his campaign as critical for maintaining Texas’s direction and identity.
“What we have in Texas is precious, but it can all be destroyed in one bad election,” Abbott explained, per Fox 4.
“Make no mistake: Democrats want that election to be this election. We will defend this great state and leave our children and grandchildren a Texas that is safer, stronger, freer, and more prosperous than ever before.”
This announcement and brief rundown of his plans is likely just the first step for Abbott on the road to re-election, with voters set to take to the polls on November 3, 2026.