Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Sunday that he will seek a record-setting fourth term as governor, declaring his commitment to protecting Texas’ heritage and advancing conservative policies. “Texas is not just another state — it’s our home. Our heritage,” Abbott stated during a speech in Houston. He emphasized his dedication to defending the state, noting, “We will protect what we built, finish what we started and lead Texas into its glorious future.”

If re-elected, Abbott would become the longest-serving governor in Texas history. Highlighting his decade-long tenure, he cited achievements in affordability, education, border security, and more. A key focus of his campaign is curbing property taxes, which he criticized as “hiking your property taxes incessantly.” Abbott proposed five policy measures, including allowing voters to abolish school property taxes, requiring two-thirds approval for tax increases, and reducing the appraisal cap from 10% to 3%. He also advocated for school voucher systems, restrictions on diversity initiatives in schools, and bans on trans athletes competing in women’s sports.

Abbott touted Texas’ economic success, citing its ranking as the top state for new jobs and business opportunities. He pledged to “drive a stake through the heart of local property tax hikes” and empower voters with greater control over taxation. Meanwhile, Republican candidates Pete Chambers and Mark Goloby have declared their bids for governor, while Democrats including Bobby Cole, Andrew White, Ben Flores, Nick Pappas, and Texas State Rep. Gina Hinojosa have also entered the race.

Abbott closed his speech with a direct message to opponents: “They cannot buy us, they cannot beat us, we will see them at the ballot box, and we will win.”