‘A Latino problem’: National Democrats clash with Andy Beshear over Texas governor’s race

Democratic leaders from Texas are publicly criticizing Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who chairs the Democratic Governors Association, over how much money the group is committing to Gina Hinojosa's campaign for governor of Texas. Several Texas members of Congress and Latino organization leaders say Beshear is putting a book tour and expected 2028 presidential ambitions ahead of the race against Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, according to CNN.

Hinojosa's side first sought $10 million, later lowering the request to $3 million. The DGA has pledged $1 million, with no guarantee of more. Rep. Sylvia Garcia warned that Beshear could face a Latino problem in 2028. On a call Beshear skipped, Jess Morales Rocketto of the group Maremoto called the handling a total disrespect. Rep. Veronica Escobar said a Hinojosa victory would show Texas, with 40 electoral votes, can be competitive in presidential contests.

Beshear's aides reject the criticism. A person familiar with DGA discussions told CNN its polling has Hinojosa five points behind, and that cheaper states with tied or leading candidates make better targets. Juan Proaño of the League of United Latin American Citizens and former DNC chair Tom Perez defended Beshear, and Arizona and Nevada currently look more winnable to the DGA.

Summarized by PolitiKool from CNN’s reporting. Read the full story at CNN →