Republicans face Latino voter backlash in Texas ahead of 2026 elections

Greg Abbott: Greg Abbott is the Republican Governor of Texas seeking a fourth term in 2026. In the news, he is the target of Democratic challenger Gina Hinojosa as Latino voter sentiment evolves in the state. Bobby Pulido: Bobby Pulido is a Latin Grammy-winning singer and Democratic candidate for Texas' 15th Congressional District, known for his crossover appeal and focus on economic opportunities for working families. In the news, his celebrity status and campaign messaging are positioning him as a strong challenger in a key redrawn district, drawing crowds at community events like quinceañeras. Donald Trump: Donald Trump is the current President of the United States, whose 2024 reelection showed strong gains among Latino voters but whose approval rating has since declined amid economic and immigration concerns. In the news, his presidency is central to shifting Latino sentiment in Texas, influencing Republican redistricting strategies and Democratic opportunities in 2026 races. Gina Hinojosa: Gina Hinojosa is the Democratic candidate for Governor of Texas in 2026. In the news, she is mentioned alongside Bobby Pulido as part of Democratic efforts to win back support in South Texas amid economic concerns. David Wasserman: David Wasserman is an elections analyst at the nonpartisan Cook Political Report who assesses congressional races and voter trends. In the news, he highlights how Latino voter shifts in Texas could undermine Republican redistricting efforts for the 2026 elections. Democratic Party: The Democratic Party is one of the two major U.S. political parties, emphasizing economic issues like affordability in campaigns targeting Latino voters. In the news, Democrats are fielding high-profile candidates in South Texas districts to capitalize on voter frustration with Republican policies ahead of the 2026 midterms. Republican Party: The Republican Party is one of the two major U.S. political parties, currently holding the presidency under Donald Trump and pursuing policies focused on economic and border security. In the news, Texas Republicans have redrawn congressional maps ahead of 2026 elections based on Trump's 2024 performance among Latino voters, aiming to maintain advantages in districts like the 15th and 35th but now facing potential backlash. Monica De La Cruz: Monica De La Cruz is the Republican incumbent in Texas' 15th Congressional District facing a competitive reelection bid. In the news, she is challenged by celebrity Democrat Bobby Pulido in a district that has become more competitive following redistricting based on 2024 voting patterns. TelevisaUnivision: TelevisaUnivision is a Spanish-language media company that conducts polls and covers political developments affecting Latino communities. In the news, its polling with Cook Political shows declining support for Trump and his policies among Texas Latinos ahead of 2026. Voter Sentiment: Polling indicates growing frustration among some Texas Latinos over economic pressures and immigration policies, opening opportunities for Democratic candidates in 2026. Candidate Strategies: Democrats in South Texas are emphasizing affordability and practical economic opportunities to appeal to Latino voters who prioritize results over ideology. Redistricting Impact: Texas Republicans redrew maps assuming sustained Latino support for their party but now face tighter races in heavily Latino districts for the midterm elections.