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Texas governor race tightens in prediction market, but GOP is favored
CNBC • • nation
Key Points:
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican seeking a fourth term, currently holds a 60% chance of winning against Democratic state Rep. Gina Hinojosa, according to prediction market platform Kalshi.
- Hinojosa's odds have surged from 8% in mid-July to 40% ahead of the election, reflecting a tightening race influenced by recent polls.
- Hinojosa is campaigning to become Texas' first Democratic governor in over 30 years, criticizing Abbott's previous support for data center development amid growing voter concerns.
- Abbott initially promoted a $40 billion Google investment in Texas AI data centers but has since imposed a moratorium on new data center permits pending an audit, responding to shifting public opinion.
- Early voting has ended with over 7.7 million Texans casting ballots, and political observers are monitoring the race for potential implications on AI data center backlash in the 2026 midterms.
