Democrat Gina Hinojosa has won the Texas governor's race, defeating incumbent Republican Greg Abbott, according to The Associated Press race call. The result makes Hinojosa the first Democratic governor of Texas since Ann Richards left office in 1995.
Abbott, who first took office in 2015, sought another term after more than a decade leading the state. His administration has overseen major changes involving border security, public education and state spending. Hinojosa, a Democratic state representative, challenged Abbott as her party sought to regain the governor's office after more than three decades of Republican control.
The governor signs or vetoes legislation, appoints state officials and helps set the agenda for lawmakers during legislative sessions. The winner will serve a four-year term beginning in January 2027.