Skip to main content
Lead image for this article
Texas 2022 Elections

Greg Abbott ran as a small-government conservative. But the governor’s office now has more power than ever.

Abbott has consolidated power like none before him, at times circumventing the GOP-controlled Legislature and overriding local officials. A flurry of executive measures has solidified his base and raised his national profile.

By Perla Trevizo, The Texas Tribune and ProPublica, and Marilyn W. Thompson, ProPublica
Gov. Greg Abbott announced a strike force in charge of laying steps to re-open the Texas economy at a press conference in the capitol on April 17, 2020.

Weak governor?

Texas Governor Greg Abbott speaks at the Texas Department of Public Safety Memorial Service on May 16, 2017 in Austin.

Methodically creating a powerhouse

Gov. Greg Abbott is briefed by government officials about the state’s preparedness in addressing  a potential outbreak of COVID-19 in the state. Feb 27, 2020.

Pushing an agenda

Flanked by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dade Phelan, Gov. Greg Abbott held a press conference at the Capitol on June 16, 2021 to provide more details on his plan for Texas to build its own border wall.

Power concentration

Wait! We need your help.

DONATE NOW

Explore related story topics

Politics State government 2022 elections Greg Abbott Investigations