HOUSTON – Governor Greg Abbott today highlighted conservative victories from the 89th Regular Legislative Session at the Magic Circle Republican Women’s Club’s Leadership and Legacy Luncheon.
“Working together, we’re going to keep Texas the best state and the greatest country in the history of the world,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas ranks number one in more categories than you can even think about. Number one for the most new jobs, number one for economic development, number one best place for doing business, and number one for the largest medical center in the entire world.”
Speaking to a crowd of grassroots advocates and leaders, Governor Abbott highlighted the largest day-one school choice program in U.S. history, the Parents Bill of Rights, historic teacher pay raises, and an unprecedented $8.5 billion public school finance package. The Governor also celebrated Houston Independent School District’s dramatic turnaround, noting that A and B rated schools have doubled in just two years since the state stepped in. Governor Abbott underscored Texas’ commitment to protecting families, highlighting a new law that bans government use of taxpayer dollars for abortions, ensuring that public funds save lives, not end them.
The Governor also addressed ongoing disaster recovery efforts following the devastating Fourth of July floods in the Hill Country. He praised first responders, including Texas DPS, the National Guard, and swift-water rescue teams, for saving or evacuating more than 1,000 Texans during the storm. The Governor emphasized the state’s commitment to long-term recovery, noting that more than $50 million has already been delivered directly to families, with another $50 million on the way. In total, Texas has committed more than $500 million to rebuild communities, restore homes, and stabilize businesses. He also recognized the generosity of Texans like George Strait, whose benefit concert raised $7 million in relief that has already begun being distributed to those in need.
Additionally, Governor Abbott touted sweeping public safety reforms, including ending the revolving-door bail system in Harris County, imposing stiffer penalties for heinous criminals, banning foreign adversaries from buying Texas land, and expanding school safety protections. The Governor also commended the Magic Circle Republican Women’s Club for driving conservative victories and honored longtime leaders Penny Butler and Barbara Hauser for their selfless service in keeping Harris County and Texas red.
The Governor was joined by Representative Lacey Hull, Fifteenth Court of Appeals Justice April Farris, and Fifteenth Court of Appeals Justice Scott Fields.