Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is facing erosion of support among rural and small-town voters, a traditionally reliable base, amid backlash over data center expansion and a planned $33 billion electric transmission project. Politico reports that rural conservatives fear the projects threaten local identity, water and electricity resources, and raise concerns about construction and pollution. Some longtime Republicans say they would consider backing a Democrat this November to send a message, despite Texas not electing a Democratic governor in over 35 years.
Abbott's August directive pausing data center grid approvals has not fully eased concerns. Polling from the Texas Politics Project shows his approval among rural voters falling from 63 percent in 2018 to 48 percent now, while recent surveys show him with only a slim lead over Democratic state Rep. Gina Hinojosa. Analysts say Abbott cannot afford major rural losses in a race that appears tighter than expected. His campaign says he remains committed to protecting rural Texans' livelihoods and resources.
