Abbott: 'Texas is the BEST place to live...I'm running for re-election to keep it that way'

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he hopes to be re-elected so he can continue to support policies that benefit families and businesses. The latest polling data shows Abbott leading opponent Beto O'Rourke by seven points.

"Here in Texas, we've created an environment where families can start a business, find good-paying jobs, & achieve their dreams," Abbott said on Twitter. "Texas is the BEST place to live, work, run a business, & raise a family. I'm running for re-election to keep it that way."

Polling data from FiveThirtyEight shows Abbott leading O'Rourke by 7.2 points as of Oct. 12.  Polls conducted throughout September and early October show Abbott leading O'Rourke by between 4 and 8 points.

O'Rourke was born in Texas and studied English at Columbia University, according to Ballotpedia. He worked as a nanny, a proofreader, and an art mover before representing Texas' 16th Congressional District from 2013 to 2019.  He ran for U.S. Senate in 2018 but was defeated by Ted Cruz.  O'Rourke also launched an unsuccessful campaign for President in 2019.

O'Rourke has spent more money on his campaign than any other Democratic candidate in Texas this election cycle, spending $15.9 million during 2021 and the first half of 2022, Ballotpedia reported.

O'Rourke is a gun control advocate who has said he would repeal permitless carry if elected, according to his website.

O'Rourke also supports abortion and has said he would repeal abortion restrictions in the state and veto any attempts to limit abortion if elected, according to his website.

Abbott, who was named “Best Governor in the Nation” in 2020, has prioritized securing the southern border through the launch of Operation Lone Star, deploying the Texas National Guard, continuing construction on the border wall, and working with governors of Mexico to try to enhance border security, according to his website.  Abbott was the longest-serving attorney general of Texas before he was elected governor in 2014.  His other priorities have included supporting law enforcement, expanding broadband access across the state, enacting pro-life legislation, and improving the state's power system.