As the election year of 2026 approaches, ABC13 is taking a closer look at the top stories from last year and what to expect in the months to come. In an all-new episode of This Week in Texas, political analysts and strategists are discussing some of the most notable events that shaped the state's politics in 2025.
One major story that was on everyone's radar last year was Governor Greg Abbott's plan to make Harris County a Republican stronghold. Abbott has long been known for his efforts to consolidate power within the GOP, but this initiative is seen as a particularly ambitious move. According to one of Abbott's top strategists, the goal is to flip at least three Democratic-held seats in the county, which would give Republicans a significant boost in the Texas House.
Another story that was getting attention last year was the new chair of the Texas House Democrat Caucus Campaign Committee. This move has been seen as a attempt to revitalize the party's efforts and compete more effectively with the GOP. However, some analysts say that the Democrats may be facing an uphill battle given the significant Republican advantage in terms of fundraising and voter registration.
In addition to these major stories, ABC13 is also taking a closer look at some of the smaller but still significant events from last year. From contentious legislative battles to innovative new initiatives on both sides of the aisle, there was no shortage of drama and excitement in Texas politics in 2025.
As we head into the election year of 2026, one thing is clear: it's going to be a wild ride. With all eyes on the state capitol, voters will have plenty of opportunities to weigh in on the issues that matter most to them. Whether you're a seasoned voter or just starting to get involved, there's no denying that Texas politics is always a story worth following.
With the stakes higher than ever before, it's going to be crucial for Texans to stay informed and engaged in the coming months. From election reform to healthcare, education, and everything in between, the topics on the table are endless and far-reaching. One thing is certain: 2026 is shaping up to be a year that will leave an indelible mark on Texas politics forever.
One major story that was on everyone's radar last year was Governor Greg Abbott's plan to make Harris County a Republican stronghold. Abbott has long been known for his efforts to consolidate power within the GOP, but this initiative is seen as a particularly ambitious move. According to one of Abbott's top strategists, the goal is to flip at least three Democratic-held seats in the county, which would give Republicans a significant boost in the Texas House.
Another story that was getting attention last year was the new chair of the Texas House Democrat Caucus Campaign Committee. This move has been seen as a attempt to revitalize the party's efforts and compete more effectively with the GOP. However, some analysts say that the Democrats may be facing an uphill battle given the significant Republican advantage in terms of fundraising and voter registration.
In addition to these major stories, ABC13 is also taking a closer look at some of the smaller but still significant events from last year. From contentious legislative battles to innovative new initiatives on both sides of the aisle, there was no shortage of drama and excitement in Texas politics in 2025.
As we head into the election year of 2026, one thing is clear: it's going to be a wild ride. With all eyes on the state capitol, voters will have plenty of opportunities to weigh in on the issues that matter most to them. Whether you're a seasoned voter or just starting to get involved, there's no denying that Texas politics is always a story worth following.
With the stakes higher than ever before, it's going to be crucial for Texans to stay informed and engaged in the coming months. From election reform to healthcare, education, and everything in between, the topics on the table are endless and far-reaching. One thing is certain: 2026 is shaping up to be a year that will leave an indelible mark on Texas politics forever.
. There r so many democrats in the county and they rnt just gonna switch sides like that. Plus, Abbott's got a bad track record when it comes to appealing to independents who rnt necessarily partisan. And let's be real, flipping 3 democratic seats is ambitious but also super unlikely. The GOP has been trying to take over texas for ages and they still cant seem to get it right 
. I'm not saying the democrats are gonna win or anything but its hard to see Abbotts plan as more than just a long shot 
. Abbott's plan to flip Harris County seats seems like a big risk, but if he can make it happen, it could change the dynamics of the state house 
. Meanwhile, the Democrats need to find their footing again. I'm curious to see how they'll adapt and compete with the GOP 
. One thing's for sure, 2026 is gonna be a wild ride 
!
. On one hand, it sounds like an ambitious move, but on the other hand, I think it's also worth noting that the Democrats have been making some big changes too 
. The new chair of the Texas House Democrat Caucus Campaign Committee seems like a good step in revitalizing their efforts 
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Can we really expect that kind of thing to get done effectively? And what about all these new initiatives on both sides of the aisle - isn't that just gonna make things even harder for regular people trying to figure out what's going on? 
. The GOP is definitely looking to make some moves and take back control. On the other hand, the Dems are trying to revamp their strategy with a new chair at the helm 
. It's gonna be hard for them to compete with the Republicans' fundraising power 
. And let's not forget about all the drama that usually comes with Texas politics - it's like a never-ending soap opera 
! I'm def keeping an eye on this one, can't wait to see how it all plays out 
. And now they're trying to flip at least three seats in Harris County? That's a tall order, dude! I'm not saying Abbott won't make some gains, but flipping an entire party is just crazy talk 
. Can't wait to see how it all plays out! 
. Abbott's trying to flip some seats? That's nothing new, he's been at it for years 
. And a new chair of the Texas House Democrat Caucus Campaign Committee? Please, we've had those come and go like so many YouTube commenters 
. The thing that gets me is how everyone's always talking about fundraising and voter registration, but nobody ever talks about the elephant in the room: the real reason politicians are in it for the money 
I'm loving how these politicians are trying to flip Harris County red, sounds like they're really hoping to get their Tex-Mex taco party started 
. Still, you gotta admire the ambition of Abbott and his team - maybe they'll finally figure out how to make Texas politics less boring than a lawn chair convention 
. It's like we just got done with it last year. And what's up with Abbott trying to flip those seats in Harris County? Like, isn't that just going to make him even more out of touch with regular people? 
And don't even get me started on the Texas House Democrat Caucus thing... it feels like they're just trying to copy the GOP's strategy. Can't they come up with something original for once? 
. Mark my words, it's gonna be a long and arduous process for actual change to happen 
! I think it's gonna be super interesting to see how Governor Abbott's plan for Harris County plays out 
. With all eyes on the state capitol, it's gonna be crucial for Texans to stay informed and engaged in the coming months 
. But seriously, with Abbott's plan to turn Harris County red, I'm just waiting for him to say "Abbot's Law" – you know, "You can't have a Democratic cake and eat a Republican one too" 
. One thing that's got me thinking is how important voter registration is 
. I'm definitely gonna be keeping an eye on this, as Texas politics always keeps me on my toes 
!