Texas Governor Candidates Clash Over STAAR Test, Space Industry

Hinojosa vows to end STAAR test, while Abbott touts Texas' space leadership

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:55pm

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A dynamic, fractured painting of a rocket launch in bright blue, orange, and white, conveying the rapid growth of Texas' space industry as a major political issue.The Texas space industry's rapid ascent is a key issue in the state's gubernatorial race.Austin Today

In the Texas governor's race, Democratic candidate Gina Hinojosa is taking aim at the controversial STAAR standardized test, while Republican incumbent Greg Abbott is highlighting the state's prominence in the space industry. Lawmakers have given initial approval to a bill that would abolish the STAAR test, which many students prepare for annually.

Why it matters

The STAAR test has been a major point of contention in Texas education, with critics arguing it places too much emphasis on standardized testing. Meanwhile, the space industry has become an increasingly important economic driver in the state, with major companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin headquartered there.

The details

Hinojosa, the Democratic candidate, has vowed to end the STAAR test if elected, arguing it puts undue stress on students and teachers. Abbott, the Republican incumbent, has touted Texas' leadership in the space industry, noting that the state is home to some of the biggest names in space exploration.

  • The Texas legislature has given initial approval to a bill that would abolish the STAAR test.
  • The Texas governor's race is taking place in 2026.

The players

Gina Hinojosa

The Democratic candidate for Texas governor, who is campaigning on a promise to end the STAAR standardized test.

Greg Abbott

The Republican incumbent Texas governor, who is touting the state's leadership in the space industry.

Texas Legislature

The state's legislative body, which has given initial approval to a bill that would abolish the STAAR test.

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What they’re saying

“The biggest companies in space exploration are headquartered in Texas.”

— Greg Abbott, Texas Governor

“We must end the STAAR test and focus on providing a well-rounded education for all Texas students.”

— Gina Hinojosa, Democratic Candidate for Texas Governor

What’s next

The Texas legislature will need to give final approval to the bill that would abolish the STAAR test. The Texas governor's race will be decided in the November 2026 election.

The takeaway

The Texas governor's race has become a battleground over the state's education policies, with the STAAR test and the space industry emerging as key issues. Voters will have a clear choice between the candidates' contrasting visions for the state's future.