Post-Election Statement from TDP Chair

To my fellow Texas Democrats,


Last week’s results underscored a stark reality. We witnessed a significant rightward shift across the country, and Texas was no exception. The Texas Democratic Party is committed to understanding and addressing the unique challenges we faced in our own elections to strengthen us for the future.

Tuesday night was difficult, with losses up and down the ballot by Democrats in Texas and nationally. However, we should balance the discouragement of those losses by celebrating our successes in key competitive races, including those won by Congressman Vicente Gonzalez and Representatives Mihaela Plesa and Eddie Morales, Jr. These wins remind us that our coalition’s work was not erased in one night, and we have a foundation upon which we can build for the next cycle.

As we process the consequences of this election and reckon with what it means for our party, this much is clear: Texas Democrats must redouble our focus on addressing the issues that affect the daily lives of all Texans. Too many of us worry about being able to pay bills, afford a trip to the doctor or gas to get to work. Families across the state worry about the safety of their neighborhoods, and many parents worry about being able to put food on the table while trying to provide a better future for their children.

Our party must also not waver from being a fervent champion for a safer, more inclusive, more compassionate Texas. Today, Texas women now fear pregnancy, yearning for the freedom to make personal choices about their own bodies without the risk of life-threatening complications. Our students fear attending school, longing for the freedom to learn in peace without wondering if they’ll make it home. And many communities fear prejudice, hoping for the freedom to simply exist without facing persecution for the color of their skin, whom they love, or who they are.

Creating a Texas where all can live free from worry or fear requires Democrats to remain united, not only in spirit but through concrete action. We face unprecedented threats—from billionaires driving our state to the extreme right, to widespread disinformation that fuels hate against vulnerable communities and undermines not only our ability to communicate objective truths but also our core values.

The strength of the Texas Democratic Party rests on our shared responsibility to counter these threats and realize our collective vision for Texas. Democrats simply cannot afford for any one of us to stand on the sidelines, expecting someone else to pick up the tab, knock the doors, or cast the vote. We must each recommit ourselves to fulfilling the mutual obligations we have to one another—now more than ever.

We recognize and deeply appreciate everyone who works to strengthen our party every day. As we forge a new path forward, we will develop a strategy informed by thoughtful, data-driven analysis of this election to better understand where and how we fell short. With heartfelt gratitude, we will engage sincerely in tough but necessary conversations with our constituents: elected officials, candidates, party leaders, caucuses, county and precinct chairs, activists, allies, and everyday Texans.

Our future will be shaped by an approach that meets the needs of everyone who contributes to the strength of our broad and diverse coalition, while reflecting the realities and aspirations of all those who call our great state home.

As we prepare to usher in a new era of leadership for our state party, let us recognize this moment as an opportunity to strengthen our dedication to each other and our communities. Let us use this setback to fortify our resolve and reinforce our commitment to progress. May our party continue to stand together, united in our unwavering belief that we still have the power to build the Texas we know is possible.

Eternamente agradecido y comprometido,

Gilberto Hinojosa
Chair, Texas Democratic Party