It’s Time: Beto Throws His Hat Into the Ring for Texas Governor

Things are heating up in Texas, as Beto O'Rourke announces his bid for the upcoming gubernatorial election.

On Monday, November 15, Beto took to Twitter to officially announce that he has decided to run for Texas governor against Republican Governor Greg Abbott.

The Stakes Are High

The competition will be fierce on either side, as Gov. Abbott seeks re-election for a third term. Gov. Abbott took office back in 2015 on January 20th after taking the reigns from fellow Republican, Gov. Rick Perry.

On the opposing end, Beto is hoping to become the first democratic governor in Texas since Democratic Gov. Dorothy Ann Willis Richards who was in office from 1991-1995. Gov. Ann Richards was actually a Central Texan herself, who was born in Lacey-Lakeview. Gov. Richards also attended Waco High School and graduated from Baylor University.

The Numbers and Other Candidates

The Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation released a new poll that shows Governor Abbott and Beto O'Rourke with remarkably close numbers.

According to the poll, Republican Gov. Abbott is taking a 1 point lead over O’Rourke at 44% to 43%. 12% of those surveyed are still unsure who they are voting for, while the remaining 3% are supporting minor party candidates.

Those other candidates include the following Republican competitors:

1. Former Texas GOP Chair Allen West
2. Former State Senator Don Huffines
3. Conservative comedian and streaming host Chad Prather

O'Rourke and Gov. Abbott will also be facing the following Democrats:

1. Pastor Michael Cooper
2. Houston-area education specialist Deirdre Gilbert

When to Cast Your Vote

It's full steam ahead, as there is less than a year until the election. The 2022 Texas gubernatorial election will take place on November 8, 2022.

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If The Election Was Tomorrow...

So, given the choice between Abbott and Beto, who would you vote for?