Story perspectives

Poll: Texas Republicans Lead, Patrick’s Gambling Stance Key

8/8/2026

Summary

Republicans Ahead

The Texas Southern University poll released on Aug. 4, with 1,200 likely voters (±2.83 pp), shows Republican candidates ahead in every statewide Texas race.
Governor Greg Abbott (R) and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) lead Democratic challengers, 49%-43% for Abbott over Gina Hinojosa (D) and 46%-39% for Patrick over Vikki Goodwin (D).
The Texas Pulse poll, also fielded July 27-30 with 619 likely voters (±4.7 pp), shows Goodwin at 48% and Patrick at 46%.

Summary

Patrick Blocks Gambling

Patrick's opposition to gambling gives him the power to block Senate debate on any betting amendment.
Democratic House member Goodwin of Bee Cave backs a ballot question that would require only 21 supportive senators because a constitutional amendment needs two-thirds votes in both chambers.
Patrick’s loss could put the gambling question on the 2028 ballot, whereas his re-election would likely postpone it until at least 2032.

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Republicans Ahead

The Texas Southern University poll released on Aug. 4, with 1,200 likely voters (±2.83 pp), shows Republican candidates ahead in every statewide Texas race.
Governor Greg Abbott (R) and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick (R) lead Democratic challengers, 49%-43% for Abbott over Gina Hinojosa (D) and 46%-39% for Patrick over Vikki Goodwin (D).
The Texas Pulse poll, also fielded July 27-30 with 619 likely voters (±4.7 pp), shows Goodwin at 48% and Patrick at 46%.

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