Hinojosa names transition team and outlines $1,500 tax rebate plan
The governor-elect announced a bipartisan staff on Thursday while detailing key legislative priorities, including Medicaid expansion and changes to school vouchers.
By Jenna Mitchell ·
Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa convened her first press conference on Thursday to announce her transition team and define her early legislative agenda.
Hinojosa stated her intention to build a bipartisan administration by including members from both major parties. She noted that a conservative Republican serves on her transition staff. "This is a transition for the whole state of Texas," she said. The governor-elect described the goal as working for Texans regardless of party affiliation.
Her proposed policies include distributing $1,500 to Texas households from the state savings account. She also plans to expand Medicaid coverage, roll back school vouchers, and end state takeovers of public schools. Hinojosa said her office is already interviewing candidates to replace Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath, who has faced criticism regarding district takeovers.
Hinojosa characterized the handover from the Abbott administration as cooperative. She said Abbott has been gracious and that his team is expected to work with the incoming staff. She did not announce a specific timeline for the transition process.
Republicans retain control of the Texas Senate, which may influence the pace of her legislative goals. Hinojosa acknowledged this dynamic during the press conference. She identified the relationship with the Senate as a key factor in implementing her plans.
The next step involves formalizing the transition team and beginning legislative negotiations. Hinojosa said her office will continue to meet with stakeholders. The governor-elect is scheduled to remain in Austin during this period to finalize staff appointments.
