Texas Democrats won statewide offices and the state House on Election Day, according to the story, which said voter anger over healthcare costs and access to care was a partly driving factor. Democrats also picked up a U.S. House seat and elected James Talarico to the U.S. Senate.
The newly elected leaders have about two months before the 140-day legislative session begins Jan. 12. They must plan how to deliver on promises about healthcare affordability and other issues, including abortion. James Henson, director of the Texas Politics Project at the University of Texas at Austin, said Democrats are still building an agenda in what he called a "dog catches car" situation.
Texas ranks among the lowest states in health outcomes and has the most uninsured residents in the country, the story said. Democratic Gov.-elect Gina Hinojosa and Lt. Gov.-elect Vikki Goodwin, both state lawmakers, are scheduled to be sworn in on Jan. 19.