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HTTP --> HTTPS [#1], replaced: http://www.breitbart.com → https://www.breitbart.com (24), http://www.nytimes.com → https://www.nytimes.com (3), http://www.washingtontimes.com → https://www.washingtontimes.com, http://www.usatoday.com → https://...
===2014 election===
===2014 election===
[[File:Texas Governor Election Results by County, 2014.svg.png|thumb|200px|left|Abbott won the 2014 election in a landslide, along with numerous other conservative Republicans.]]
[[File:Texas Governor Election Results by County, 2014.svg.png|thumb|200px|left|Abbott won the 2014 election in a landslide, along with numerous other conservative Republicans.]]
Abbott won the 2014 general election with over 59 percent of the vote,<ref name="Directory">[https://www.texastribune.org/directory/greg-abbott/ Governor Greg Abbott]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref><ref>Root, Jay (November 4, 2014). [https://www.texastribune.org/2014/11/04/abbott-crushes-wendy-davis-gop-sweep/ Abbott Crushes Davis in GOP Sweep]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved April 21, 2018.</ref><ref>Hoppe, Christy (November 5, 2014). [https://www.dallasnews.com/news/local-politics/2014/11/05/greg-abbott-tops-wendy-davis-in-texas-governor-s-race Greg Abbott tops Wendy Davis in Texas governor's race]. ''The Dallas Morning News''. Retrieved April 21, 2018.</ref> in an election that was a disaster for [[Democratic Party (USA)|Democrats]].<ref>Thorburn, Wayne (November 17, 2016). [http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2014/11/how-the-democrats-lost-texas-112956 How the Democrats Lost Texas]. ''Politico Magazine''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref><ref>Hamilton, Reeve (November 5, 2014). [https://www.texastribune.org/2014/11/05/little-show-battleground-texas-fights/ What Went Wrong With Battleground Texas?] ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved April 21, 2018.</ref> In the same election, the [[Tea Party Movement|Tea Party]] made large gains in the state.<ref name="Grissom">Grissom, Brandi (May 28, 2014). [https://www.texastribune.org/2014/05/28/tea-party-conservatives-win-top-gop-runoff-contest/ Tea Party Conservatives Win Top GOP Runoff Contests]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved October 1, 2015.</ref> Abbott's campaign was praised for its effectiveness.<ref>Carney, Dave (February 6, 2015). [http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2015/02/greg-abbott-texas-114972 How We Won Texas]. ''Politico Magazine''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref>
Abbott won the 2014 general election with over 59 percent of the vote,<ref name="Directory">[https://www.texastribune.org/directory/greg-abbott/ Governor Greg Abbott]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref><ref>Root, Jay (November 4, 2014). [https://www.texastribune.org/2014/11/04/abbott-crushes-wendy-davis-gop-sweep/ Abbott Crushes Davis in GOP Sweep]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved April 21, 2018.</ref><ref>Hoppe, Christy (November 5, 2014). [https://www.dallasnews.com/news/local-politics/2014/11/05/greg-abbott-tops-wendy-davis-in-texas-governor-s-race Greg Abbott tops Wendy Davis in Texas governor's race]. ''The Dallas Morning News''. Retrieved April 21, 2018.</ref> in an election that was a disaster for [[Democratic Party (USA)|Democrats]].<ref>Thorburn, Wayne (November 17, 2016). [https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2014/11/how-the-democrats-lost-texas-112956 How the Democrats Lost Texas]. ''Politico Magazine''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref><ref>Hamilton, Reeve (November 5, 2014). [https://www.texastribune.org/2014/11/05/little-show-battleground-texas-fights/ What Went Wrong With Battleground Texas?] ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved April 21, 2018.</ref> In the same election, the [[Tea Party Movement|Tea Party]] made large gains in the state.<ref name="Grissom">Grissom, Brandi (May 28, 2014). [https://www.texastribune.org/2014/05/28/tea-party-conservatives-win-top-gop-runoff-contest/ Tea Party Conservatives Win Top GOP Runoff Contests]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved October 1, 2015.</ref> Abbott's campaign was praised for its effectiveness.<ref>Carney, Dave (February 6, 2015). [https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2015/02/greg-abbott-texas-114972 How We Won Texas]. ''Politico Magazine''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref>
===2018 election===
===2018 election===
===Tenure===
===Tenure===
Abbott took office on January 20, 2015.<ref name="Echoes">Fernandez, Manny (January 20, 2015). [http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/21/us/politics/new-texas-governor-greg-abbott-expected-to-continue-on-perrys-path.html Texas’ New Governor Echoes the Plans of Perry]. ''The New York Times''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref> Abbott called a special session in 2017, ordering the legislature to focus on conservative priorities.<ref>Price, Bob (June 6, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/06/texas-governor-calls-legislative-special-session-bathroom-bill-others/ Texas Governor Calls for Legislative Special Session for ‘Bathroom Bill’, Others]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref> Despite Abbott's conservative views, some conservative commentators voiced their concerns that Texas bureaucrats were increasing Texas regulations and making it more like California.<ref>[http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/28/lennon-texas-bureaucrats-becoming-regulation-friendly-obama/ LENNON: Texas Bureaucrats Are Becoming More Regulation-friendly Than Obama]. ''Breitbart News''. June 28, 2017. Retrieved June 29, 2017.</ref> However, the Trump Administration nominated several conservative judges who once were employees of Abbott.<ref>Platoff, Emma (April 3, 2018). [https://www.texastribune.org/2018/04/03/greg-abbott-andrew-oldham-fifth-circuit-judicial-appointees/ "A friendly vote on the court": How Greg Abbott's former employees could help Texas from the federal bench]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved May 17, 2018.</ref>
Abbott took office on January 20, 2015.<ref name="Echoes">Fernandez, Manny (January 20, 2015). [https://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/21/us/politics/new-texas-governor-greg-abbott-expected-to-continue-on-perrys-path.html Texas’ New Governor Echoes the Plans of Perry]. ''The New York Times''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref> Abbott called a special session in 2017, ordering the legislature to focus on conservative priorities.<ref>Price, Bob (June 6, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/06/texas-governor-calls-legislative-special-session-bathroom-bill-others/ Texas Governor Calls for Legislative Special Session for ‘Bathroom Bill’, Others]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref> Despite Abbott's conservative views, some conservative commentators voiced their concerns that Texas bureaucrats were increasing Texas regulations and making it more like California.<ref>[https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/28/lennon-texas-bureaucrats-becoming-regulation-friendly-obama/ LENNON: Texas Bureaucrats Are Becoming More Regulation-friendly Than Obama]. ''Breitbart News''. June 28, 2017. Retrieved June 29, 2017.</ref> However, the Trump Administration nominated several conservative judges who once were employees of Abbott.<ref>Platoff, Emma (April 3, 2018). [https://www.texastribune.org/2018/04/03/greg-abbott-andrew-oldham-fifth-circuit-judicial-appointees/ "A friendly vote on the court": How Greg Abbott's former employees could help Texas from the federal bench]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved May 17, 2018.</ref>
====Abortion====
====Abortion====
In late November 2016, Texas, under Abbott, approved new rules that would require aborted babies to receive a burial or cremation, proper for a real human being, rather than be disposed of in a sanitary landfill.<ref>Stack, Liam (November 30, 2016). [http://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/30/us/texas-burial-aborted-fetuses.html Texas Will Require Burial of Aborted Fetuses]. ''The New York Times''. Retrieved December 1, 2016.</ref><ref>Perchick, Michael (December 1, 2016). [http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/12/01/new-texas-provisions-require-burial-cremation-aborted-fetuses/94721914/ New Texas provisions require burial or cremation of aborted fetuses]. ''USA Today'' (from ''KVUE-TV''). Retrieved December 1, 2016.</ref> Despite the common sense on protecting human life, a federal judge ruled against the law in late January 2017.<ref>Evans, Marissa (January 27, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/01/27/fetal-remains-ruling/ Federal court blocks Texas fetal remains burial rule]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref>
In late November 2016, Texas, under Abbott, approved new rules that would require aborted babies to receive a burial or cremation, proper for a real human being, rather than be disposed of in a sanitary landfill.<ref>Stack, Liam (November 30, 2016). [https://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/30/us/texas-burial-aborted-fetuses.html Texas Will Require Burial of Aborted Fetuses]. ''The New York Times''. Retrieved December 1, 2016.</ref><ref>Perchick, Michael (December 1, 2016). [https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/12/01/new-texas-provisions-require-burial-cremation-aborted-fetuses/94721914/ New Texas provisions require burial or cremation of aborted fetuses]. ''USA Today'' (from ''KVUE-TV''). Retrieved December 1, 2016.</ref> Despite the common sense on protecting human life, a federal judge ruled against the law in late January 2017.<ref>Evans, Marissa (January 27, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/01/27/fetal-remains-ruling/ Federal court blocks Texas fetal remains burial rule]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref>
In June 2017, Abbott signed a major [[pro-life]] bill into law banning dismemberment abortions, banning the sale of the body parts of aborted babies, and requiring the remains of the babies be either buried or cremated rather than disposed of in an inhumane way.<ref>Price, Bob (June 7, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/07/texas-governor-inks-dismemberment-abortion-sale-body-parts-ban/ Texas Governor Inks Dismemberment Abortion, Sale of Body Parts Ban]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Mekelburg, Madlin (May 26, 2017). [https://www.dallasnews.com/news/texas-legislature/2017/05/26/sweeping-anti-abortion-bill-heads-gov-greg-abbotts-desk Sweeping anti-abortion bill heads to Gov. Greg Abbott's desk]. ''Dallas News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Gryboski, Michael (June 7, 2017). [http://www.christianpost.com/news/texas-governor-signs-abortion-dismemberment-ban-law-186867/ Texas Governor Signs Abortion Dismemberment Ban Into Law]. ''The Christian Post''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Chretien, Claire (June 7, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/breaking-texas-governor-signs-law-banning-dismemberment-abortion Texas bans mutilating babies in abortion, selling their body parts]. ''LifeSite News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Russell, Nicole (July 6, 2017). [http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/texas-law-recognizes-human-life-critics-rage/article/2627828 Texas law recognizes human life, critics rage]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved July 6, 2017.</ref>
In June 2017, Abbott signed a major [[pro-life]] bill into law banning dismemberment abortions, banning the sale of the body parts of aborted babies, and requiring the remains of the babies be either buried or cremated rather than disposed of in an inhumane way.<ref>Price, Bob (June 7, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/07/texas-governor-inks-dismemberment-abortion-sale-body-parts-ban/ Texas Governor Inks Dismemberment Abortion, Sale of Body Parts Ban]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Mekelburg, Madlin (May 26, 2017). [https://www.dallasnews.com/news/texas-legislature/2017/05/26/sweeping-anti-abortion-bill-heads-gov-greg-abbotts-desk Sweeping anti-abortion bill heads to Gov. Greg Abbott's desk]. ''Dallas News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Gryboski, Michael (June 7, 2017). [http://www.christianpost.com/news/texas-governor-signs-abortion-dismemberment-ban-law-186867/ Texas Governor Signs Abortion Dismemberment Ban Into Law]. ''The Christian Post''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Chretien, Claire (June 7, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/breaking-texas-governor-signs-law-banning-dismemberment-abortion Texas bans mutilating babies in abortion, selling their body parts]. ''LifeSite News''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Russell, Nicole (July 6, 2017). [http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/texas-law-recognizes-human-life-critics-rage/article/2627828 Texas law recognizes human life, critics rage]. ''Washington Examiner''. Retrieved July 6, 2017.</ref>
====Religious liberty====
====Religious liberty====
On May 21, 2017, Abbott signed Senate Bill 24 into law, preventing state or local governments from subpoenaing pastors' sermons.<ref name="SvitekSubpoenas">{{cite web | last1=Svitek | first1=Patrick | title=Abbott Signs Bill Protecting Sermons from Subpoenas | url=https://www.texastribune.org/2017/05/21/abbott-signs-bill-protecting-sermons-subpoenas/ | date=May 21, 2017 | publisher=''The Texas Tribune'' | accessdate=May 22, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Abbott Signs Bill Preventing Government From Subpoenaing Sermons | url=http://dfw.cbslocal.com/2017/05/21/abbott-signs-bill-preventing-government-subpoenaing-sermons/ | date=May 21, 2017 | publisher=CBS DFW | accessdate=May 22, 2017}}</ref> This bill was inspired by an [[Homosexual Agenda|pro-homosexual]] "anti-discrimination" ordinance in [[Houston]], where five sermons were subpoenaed.<ref name="SvitekSubpoenas"/>
On May 21, 2017, Abbott signed Senate Bill 24 into law, preventing state or local governments from subpoenaing pastors' sermons.<ref name="SvitekSubpoenas">{{cite web | last1=Svitek | first1=Patrick | title=Abbott Signs Bill Protecting Sermons from Subpoenas | url=https://www.texastribune.org/2017/05/21/abbott-signs-bill-protecting-sermons-subpoenas/ | date=May 21, 2017 | publisher=''The Texas Tribune'' | accessdate=May 22, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | title=Abbott Signs Bill Preventing Government From Subpoenaing Sermons | url=http://dfw.cbslocal.com/2017/05/21/abbott-signs-bill-preventing-government-subpoenaing-sermons/ | date=May 21, 2017 | publisher=CBS DFW | accessdate=May 22, 2017}}</ref> This bill was inspired by an [[Homosexual Agenda|pro-homosexual]] "anti-discrimination" ordinance in [[Houston]], where five sermons were subpoenaed.<ref name="SvitekSubpoenas"/>
On June 15, 2017, Abbott signed H.B. 3859 into law, which gave adoption agencies to refuse to let homosexual couples adopt the children under their care due to religious reasons.<ref>Gryboski, Michael (June 16, 2017). [http://www.christianpost.com/news/texas-governor-greg-abbott-bill-protecting-faith-based-adoption-188222/ Texas Gov. Signs Bill Protecting Religious Freedom of Faith-Based Adoption Groups]. ''The Christian Post''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>Evans, Marissa (June 15, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/15/abbott-signs-religious-protections-child-welfare-agencies/ Abbott OKs religious refusal of adoptions in Texas]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>Gill, Joshua (June 16, 2017). [http://dailycaller.com/2017/06/16/religious-adoption-agencies-can-reject-lgbt-parents-in-texas/ Religious Adoption Agencies Can Reject LGBT Parents In Texas]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>LaBarbera, Peter (June 16, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/new-law-christian-adoption-agencies-wont-be-forced-to-give-kids-to-gay-coup New law: Christian adoption agencies won’t be forced to give kids to gay couples in Texas]. ''LifeSite News''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref> This law caused [[California]], a left-wing Democrat state, to add Texas to its governmental travel ban list.<ref>Watkins, Matthew (June 22, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/22/citing-religious-refusal-adoption-rule-california-bans-state-travel-te/ Citing religious refusal of adoption rule, California bans state travel to Texas]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>Price, Bob (June 22, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/22/california-attacks-texas-travel-ban-alleged-lgbt-discrimination/ California Attacks Texas with Travel Ban over Alleged LGBT Discrimination]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 26, 2017.</ref>
On June 15, 2017, Abbott signed H.B. 3859 into law, which gave adoption agencies to refuse to let homosexual couples adopt the children under their care due to religious reasons.<ref>Gryboski, Michael (June 16, 2017). [http://www.christianpost.com/news/texas-governor-greg-abbott-bill-protecting-faith-based-adoption-188222/ Texas Gov. Signs Bill Protecting Religious Freedom of Faith-Based Adoption Groups]. ''The Christian Post''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>Evans, Marissa (June 15, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/15/abbott-signs-religious-protections-child-welfare-agencies/ Abbott OKs religious refusal of adoptions in Texas]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>Gill, Joshua (June 16, 2017). [https://dailycaller.com/2017/06/16/religious-adoption-agencies-can-reject-lgbt-parents-in-texas/ Religious Adoption Agencies Can Reject LGBT Parents In Texas]. ''The Daily Caller''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>LaBarbera, Peter (June 16, 2017). [https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/new-law-christian-adoption-agencies-wont-be-forced-to-give-kids-to-gay-coup New law: Christian adoption agencies won’t be forced to give kids to gay couples in Texas]. ''LifeSite News''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref> This law caused [[California]], a left-wing Democrat state, to add Texas to its governmental travel ban list.<ref>Watkins, Matthew (June 22, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/22/citing-religious-refusal-adoption-rule-california-bans-state-travel-te/ Citing religious refusal of adoption rule, California bans state travel to Texas]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref><ref>Price, Bob (June 22, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/22/california-attacks-texas-travel-ban-alleged-lgbt-discrimination/ California Attacks Texas with Travel Ban over Alleged LGBT Discrimination]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 26, 2017.</ref>
====Gun rights====
====Gun rights====
On June 13, 2015, Abbott signed the [[campus carry]] (SB 11) and the [[open carry]] (HB 910) bills into law.<ref name="OpenAndCampus">{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.kvue.com/story/news/state/2015/06/12/gov-abbott-open-carry-campus-carry/71160338/ |title=Gov. Abbott signs open carry, campus carry into law |website=Kvue.com |date=2015-06-13 |accessdate=2016-01-02}}</ref> The campus carry law went into effect on August 1, 2015 and allows the licensed carrying of a concealed handgun on public college campuses, with private colleges being able to opt out.<ref name="OpenAndCampus"/><ref name="Open">{{cite web|url=http://www.texastribune.org/2015/06/13/abbott-signs-open-carry-bill/ |title=At Shooting Range, Abbott Signs "Open Carry" Bill |publisher=The Texas Tribune |date=2015-06-13 |accessdate=2016-01-02}}</ref> The open carry bill went into effect on January 1, 2016 and allows the licensed carrying of handguns openly in all locations that allow concealed carry.<ref name="OpenAndCampus"/><ref name="Open"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/01/us/-2016-01-01-texas-open-carry-gun-law.html?_r=0|title=Texas Open Carry Gun Law|newspaper=''[[The New York Times]]''|accessdate=January 2, 2016}}</ref> Texas is the 45th state to have open carry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abc13.com/news/texas-becomes-45th-state-to-pass-open-carry-law/1143146/ |title=Texas becomes 45th state to pass open carry law |website=Abc13.com |date=2015-06-08 |accessdate=2016-01-02}}</ref> Later, in May 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law massively reducing handgun carry licence fees.<ref>Price, Bob (May 28, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/28/texas-governor-signs-law-reducing-handgun-carry-license-fees/ Texas Governor Signs Law Reducing Handgun Carry License Fees]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 28, 2017.</ref><ref>Samuels, Alex (May 26, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/05/26/texas-gov-greg-abbott-signs-measure-reduce-handgun-license-fee/ Texas governor jokes about shooting reporters after signing gun bill]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved May 28, 2017.</ref>
On June 13, 2015, Abbott signed the [[campus carry]] (SB 11) and the [[open carry]] (HB 910) bills into law.<ref name="OpenAndCampus">{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.kvue.com/story/news/state/2015/06/12/gov-abbott-open-carry-campus-carry/71160338/ |title=Gov. Abbott signs open carry, campus carry into law |website=Kvue.com |date=2015-06-13 |accessdate=2016-01-02}}</ref> The campus carry law went into effect on August 1, 2015 and allows the licensed carrying of a concealed handgun on public college campuses, with private colleges being able to opt out.<ref name="OpenAndCampus"/><ref name="Open">{{cite web|url=http://www.texastribune.org/2015/06/13/abbott-signs-open-carry-bill/ |title=At Shooting Range, Abbott Signs "Open Carry" Bill |publisher=The Texas Tribune |date=2015-06-13 |accessdate=2016-01-02}}</ref> The open carry bill went into effect on January 1, 2016 and allows the licensed carrying of handguns openly in all locations that allow concealed carry.<ref name="OpenAndCampus"/><ref name="Open"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/01/01/us/-2016-01-01-texas-open-carry-gun-law.html?_r=0|title=Texas Open Carry Gun Law|newspaper=''[[The New York Times]]''|accessdate=January 2, 2016}}</ref> Texas is the 45th state to have open carry.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://abc13.com/news/texas-becomes-45th-state-to-pass-open-carry-law/1143146/ |title=Texas becomes 45th state to pass open carry law |website=Abc13.com |date=2015-06-08 |accessdate=2016-01-02}}</ref> Later, in May 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law massively reducing handgun carry licence fees.<ref>Price, Bob (May 28, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/28/texas-governor-signs-law-reducing-handgun-carry-license-fees/ Texas Governor Signs Law Reducing Handgun Carry License Fees]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 28, 2017.</ref><ref>Samuels, Alex (May 26, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/05/26/texas-gov-greg-abbott-signs-measure-reduce-handgun-license-fee/ Texas governor jokes about shooting reporters after signing gun bill]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved May 28, 2017.</ref>
In 2018, Abbott caved to the gun control lobby by canceling shotgun giveaway for a contest after left-wing gun control activists criticized him for it.<ref>Folley, Aris (May 21, 2018). [http://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/388646-texas-governor-cancels-plans-of-shotgun-giveaway-days-after-school Texas governor cancels shotgun giveaway days after school shooting]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved May 21, 2018.</ref>
In 2018, Abbott caved to the gun control lobby by canceling shotgun giveaway for a contest after left-wing gun control activists criticized him for it.<ref>Folley, Aris (May 21, 2018). [https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/388646-texas-governor-cancels-plans-of-shotgun-giveaway-days-after-school Texas governor cancels shotgun giveaway days after school shooting]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved May 21, 2018.</ref>
====Illegal immigration and refugees====
====Illegal immigration and refugees====
Abbott signed the 2015 Texas state budget into law, which provided for a record amount of spending for border security and enforcement.<ref>Shadwick, Lana (June 10, 2015). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2015/06/10/texas-gov-signs-toughest-border-security-plan-of-any-state-and-seeks-fed-reimbursement/ Texas Gov. Signs Toughest Border Security Plan of Any State, and Seeks Fed Reimbursement]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref> Abbott vetoed almost $300 million in discretionary spending from the budget despite that.<ref>[http://gov.texas.gov/news/press-release/21105 Governor Abbott Signs State Budget Into Law]. ''Office of the Governor''. June 20, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref><ref>[http://dfw.cbslocal.com/2015/06/20/gov-abbott-cuts-300m-vetoes-bills-on-spousal-loopholes-prostitution/ Gov. Abbott Cuts $300M, Vetoes Bills On Spousal Loopholes, Prostitution]. ''CBS DFW''. June 20, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref> The Texas legislature did not pass a bill to end "[[Sanctuary City (Immigration)|sanctuary cities]]", so Abbott took matters into his own hands and established a plan to "strip state grant funding from county sheriff's" who do not enforce the law.<ref>Price, Bob (January 1, 2016). [http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/01/01/2015-texas-new-governor-attacks-sanctuary-cities-expands-border-security/ 2015: Texas’ New Governor Attacks Sanctuary Cities, Expands Border Security]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref>
Abbott signed the 2015 Texas state budget into law, which provided for a record amount of spending for border security and enforcement.<ref>Shadwick, Lana (June 10, 2015). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2015/06/10/texas-gov-signs-toughest-border-security-plan-of-any-state-and-seeks-fed-reimbursement/ Texas Gov. Signs Toughest Border Security Plan of Any State, and Seeks Fed Reimbursement]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref> Abbott vetoed almost $300 million in discretionary spending from the budget despite that.<ref>[http://gov.texas.gov/news/press-release/21105 Governor Abbott Signs State Budget Into Law]. ''Office of the Governor''. June 20, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref><ref>[http://dfw.cbslocal.com/2015/06/20/gov-abbott-cuts-300m-vetoes-bills-on-spousal-loopholes-prostitution/ Gov. Abbott Cuts $300M, Vetoes Bills On Spousal Loopholes, Prostitution]. ''CBS DFW''. June 20, 2015. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref> The Texas legislature did not pass a bill to end "[[Sanctuary City (Immigration)|sanctuary cities]]", so Abbott took matters into his own hands and established a plan to "strip state grant funding from county sheriff's" who do not enforce the law.<ref>Price, Bob (January 1, 2016). [https://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/01/01/2015-texas-new-governor-attacks-sanctuary-cities-expands-border-security/ 2015: Texas’ New Governor Attacks Sanctuary Cities, Expands Border Security]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref>
In September 2016, Abbott withdrew Texas from a federal refugee resettlement program after the [[Barack Hussein Obama|Obama Administration]] rejected "specific security conditions" from the state.<ref>Price, Bob (September 30, 2016). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2016/09/30/texas-withdraws-federal-refugee-resettlement-program/ Texas Withdraws from Federal Refugee Resettlement Program]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref>
In September 2016, Abbott withdrew Texas from a federal refugee resettlement program after the [[Barack Hussein Obama|Obama Administration]] rejected "specific security conditions" from the state.<ref>Price, Bob (September 30, 2016). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2016/09/30/texas-withdraws-federal-refugee-resettlement-program/ Texas Withdraws from Federal Refugee Resettlement Program]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved October 1, 2016.</ref>
On February 1, 2017, Abbott blocked funding to Travis County after its left-wing sheriff introduced illegal [[Sanctuary City (Immigration)|"sanctuary city"]] policies to the county.<ref>Svitek, Patrick (February 1, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/02/01/sanctuary-fight-abbott-cuts-funding-travis-county/ In "sanctuary" fight, Abbott cuts off funding to Travis County]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref><ref>Price, Bob (February 1, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/02/01/texas-governor-suspends-funding-sanctuary-county/ Texas Governor Cuts Cash for Sanctuary County]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref> On May 7, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law which would criminally charge city or county officials who refuse to cooperate with federal officials in enforcing immigration laws and which gives the police the right to choose to check the immigration status of individuals if they choose, effectively banning "sanctuary" cities.<ref>Carter, Brandon (May 7, 2017). [http://thehill.com/latino/332317-texas-governor-signs-law-banning-sanctuary-cities Texas governor signs law banning sanctuary cities]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved May 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Price, Bob (May 7, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/07/live-video-texas-governor-signs-toughest-sanctuary-city-law-usa/ Texas Governor Signs Toughest Sanctuary City Law in U.S.A.]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 7, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/05/07/texas-governor-signs-bill-targeting-sanctuary-cities.html Texas governor signs bill targeting sanctuary cities]. ''Fox News''. May 7, 2017. Retrieved May 7, 2017.</ref> While a federal judge blocked portions of the law, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the ruling.<ref>Price, Bob (September 25, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/09/25/texas-anti-sanctuary-city-law-can-enforced-appeals-court-rules/ Texas’ Anti-Sanctuary City Law Can Be Enforced, Appeals Court Rules]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 25, 2017.</ref> In March 2018, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals again ruled in favor of the law.<ref>Multiple references:
On February 1, 2017, Abbott blocked funding to Travis County after its left-wing sheriff introduced illegal [[Sanctuary City (Immigration)|"sanctuary city"]] policies to the county.<ref>Svitek, Patrick (February 1, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/02/01/sanctuary-fight-abbott-cuts-funding-travis-county/ In "sanctuary" fight, Abbott cuts off funding to Travis County]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref><ref>Price, Bob (February 1, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/02/01/texas-governor-suspends-funding-sanctuary-county/ Texas Governor Cuts Cash for Sanctuary County]. ''Breitbart''. Retrieved February 2, 2017.</ref> On May 7, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law which would criminally charge city or county officials who refuse to cooperate with federal officials in enforcing immigration laws and which gives the police the right to choose to check the immigration status of individuals if they choose, effectively banning "sanctuary" cities.<ref>Carter, Brandon (May 7, 2017). [https://thehill.com/latino/332317-texas-governor-signs-law-banning-sanctuary-cities Texas governor signs law banning sanctuary cities]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved May 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Price, Bob (May 7, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/07/live-video-texas-governor-signs-toughest-sanctuary-city-law-usa/ Texas Governor Signs Toughest Sanctuary City Law in U.S.A.]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 7, 2017.</ref><ref>[http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/05/07/texas-governor-signs-bill-targeting-sanctuary-cities.html Texas governor signs bill targeting sanctuary cities]. ''Fox News''. May 7, 2017. Retrieved May 7, 2017.</ref> While a federal judge blocked portions of the law, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the ruling.<ref>Price, Bob (September 25, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/09/25/texas-anti-sanctuary-city-law-can-enforced-appeals-court-rules/ Texas’ Anti-Sanctuary City Law Can Be Enforced, Appeals Court Rules]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 25, 2017.</ref> In March 2018, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals again ruled in favor of the law.<ref>Multiple references:
*Dedaj, Paulina (March 13, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/03/13/us-appeals-court-upholds-texas-law-targeting-sanctuary-cities.html US appeals court upholds Texas law targeting sanctuary cities]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved March 14, 2018.
*Dedaj, Paulina (March 13, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/03/13/us-appeals-court-upholds-texas-law-targeting-sanctuary-cities.html US appeals court upholds Texas law targeting sanctuary cities]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved March 14, 2018.
*Price, Bob (March 13, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/03/13/texas-sanctuary-city-law-survives-fifth-circuit-appeal/ Texas Sanctuary City Law Survives Fifth Circuit Appeal]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved March 14, 2018.
*Price, Bob (March 13, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/03/13/texas-sanctuary-city-law-survives-fifth-circuit-appeal/ Texas Sanctuary City Law Survives Fifth Circuit Appeal]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved March 14, 2018.
*Aguilar, Julián (March 13, 2018). [https://www.texastribune.org/2018/03/13/texas-immigration-sanctuary-cities-law-court/ Federal appeals court's ruling upholds most of Texas' "sanctuary cities" law]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved March 14, 2018.</ref>
*Aguilar, Julián (March 13, 2018). [https://www.texastribune.org/2018/03/13/texas-immigration-sanctuary-cities-law-court/ Federal appeals court's ruling upholds most of Texas' "sanctuary cities" law]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved March 14, 2018.</ref>
*Zwirz, Elizabeth (April 6, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/04/06/arizona-governor-announces-plans-to-send-150-national-guard-members-to-border.html Arizona, Texas announce plans to send National Guard members to border]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved April 7, 2018.
*Zwirz, Elizabeth (April 6, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/us/2018/04/06/arizona-governor-announces-plans-to-send-150-national-guard-members-to-border.html Arizona, Texas announce plans to send National Guard members to border]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved April 7, 2018.
*[https://www.voanews.com/a/arizona-texas-prepare-send-guard-troops-united-states-mexico-border/4336285.html Arizona, Texas Sending National Guard to US-Mexico Border]. ''Voice of America''. April 6, 2018. Retrieved April 7, 2018.
*[https://www.voanews.com/a/arizona-texas-prepare-send-guard-troops-united-states-mexico-border/4336285.html Arizona, Texas Sending National Guard to US-Mexico Border]. ''Voice of America''. April 6, 2018. Retrieved April 7, 2018.
*Price, Bob (April 7, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/04/07/250-texas-national-guard-members-heading-border/ 250 Texas National Guard Members Heading to Border]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.</ref> and he defended the actions.<ref>Key, Pam (April 9, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/video/2018/04/09/tx-gov-abbott-mathematical-need-national-guard-secure-u-s-mexico-border/ TX Gov Abbott: ‘Mathematical Need’ for National Guard to Secure U.S.-Mexico Border]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.</ref> A few days later, Abbott increased the number of pledged troops to at least 1,000.<ref>Multiple references:
*Price, Bob (April 7, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/04/07/250-texas-national-guard-members-heading-border/ 250 Texas National Guard Members Heading to Border]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.</ref> and he defended the actions.<ref>Key, Pam (April 9, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/video/2018/04/09/tx-gov-abbott-mathematical-need-national-guard-secure-u-s-mexico-border/ TX Gov Abbott: ‘Mathematical Need’ for National Guard to Secure U.S.-Mexico Border]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.</ref> A few days later, Abbott increased the number of pledged troops to at least 1,000.<ref>Multiple references:
*Chamberlain, Samuel (April 9, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2018/04/09/texas-arizona-new-mexico-pledge-hundreds-national-guard-troops-for-us-mexico-border.html Texas, Arizona, New Mexico pledge hundreds of National Guard troops for US-Mexico border]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.
*Chamberlain, Samuel (April 9, 2018). [http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2018/04/09/texas-arizona-new-mexico-pledge-hundreds-national-guard-troops-for-us-mexico-border.html Texas, Arizona, New Mexico pledge hundreds of National Guard troops for US-Mexico border]. ''Fox News''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.
*Sanchez, Luis (April 9, 2018). [http://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/382370-arizona-hikes-number-of-national-guard-troops-its-sending-to-the-border Texas, Arizona hike number of troops heading to border]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.
*Sanchez, Luis (April 9, 2018). [https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/382370-arizona-hikes-number-of-national-guard-troops-its-sending-to-the-border Texas, Arizona hike number of troops heading to border]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved April 9, 2018.
*[http://www.breitbart.com/news/texas-to-send-up-to-1400-troops-to-u-s-mexico-border/ Texas to send up to 1,400 troops to U.S.-Mexico border]. ''Breitbart News'' (from ''UPI''). April 10, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018.
*[https://www.breitbart.com/news/texas-to-send-up-to-1400-troops-to-u-s-mexico-border/ Texas to send up to 1,400 troops to U.S.-Mexico border]. ''Breitbart News'' (from ''UPI''). April 10, 2018. Retrieved April 10, 2018.
See also:
See also:
*Price, Bob (April 10, 2018). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/04/10/texas-national-guard-troops-will-armed-says-governor/ Texas National Guard Troops Will Be Armed, Says Governor]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 11, 2018.</ref>
*Price, Bob (April 10, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/04/10/texas-national-guard-troops-will-armed-says-governor/ Texas National Guard Troops Will Be Armed, Says Governor]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 11, 2018.</ref>
====Israel====
====Israel====
Abbott signed three bills in 2017, one of which condemns the anti-[[Israel]] [[Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions]] movement and requires that every business that contracts for any Texas governmental unit not to boycott Israel,<ref>Hope, Merrill (May 2, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/02/texas-governor-signs-anti-bds-bill-law/ Texas Governor Signs Anti-BDS Bill into Law]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref> and the other two ban government contractors from doing business with [[Iran]], [[Sudan]], or "designated foreign terrorist organizations"; and expand anti-Iran restrictions.<ref>Hope, Merrill (June 9, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/09/texas-governor-israeli-pm-reaffirm-strong-ties-call/ Texas Governor, Israeli PM Reaffirm Strong Ties During Call]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref>
Abbott signed three bills in 2017, one of which condemns the anti-[[Israel]] [[Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions]] movement and requires that every business that contracts for any Texas governmental unit not to boycott Israel,<ref>Hope, Merrill (May 2, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/02/texas-governor-signs-anti-bds-bill-law/ Texas Governor Signs Anti-BDS Bill into Law]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref> and the other two ban government contractors from doing business with [[Iran]], [[Sudan]], or "designated foreign terrorist organizations"; and expand anti-Iran restrictions.<ref>Hope, Merrill (June 9, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/09/texas-governor-israeli-pm-reaffirm-strong-ties-call/ Texas Governor, Israeli PM Reaffirm Strong Ties During Call]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 9, 2017.</ref>
====State and national sovereignty====
====State and national sovereignty====
On June 14, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law prohibiting the use of any foreign law, including [[Sharia Law]], in Texas courts.<ref>Hope, Merrill (June 16, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/16/texas-enacts-anti-sharia-law/ Texas Enacts ‘Anti-Sharia’ Law]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 16, 2017.</ref>
On June 14, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law prohibiting the use of any foreign law, including [[Sharia Law]], in Texas courts.<ref>Hope, Merrill (June 16, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/16/texas-enacts-anti-sharia-law/ Texas Enacts ‘Anti-Sharia’ Law]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 16, 2017.</ref>
====Voter fraud====
====Voter fraud====
On June 2, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law reinstating and modifying Texas's voter ID law.<ref>Wilson, Reid (June 2, 2017). [http://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/336093-texas-gov-signs-new-voter-id-plan Texas gov signs new voter ID plan]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved June 2, 2017.<br>See also:
On June 2, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law reinstating and modifying Texas's voter ID law.<ref>Wilson, Reid (June 2, 2017). [https://thehill.com/homenews/state-watch/336093-texas-gov-signs-new-voter-id-plan Texas gov signs new voter ID plan]. ''The Hill''. Retrieved June 2, 2017.<br>See also:
*Hope, Merrill (September 18, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/09/18/texas-declares-final-victory-in-voter-id-lawsuit/ Texas Declares ‘Final Victory’ in Voter ID Lawsuit]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref> Also in June 2017, Abbott vetoed a bill that would have allowed mail-in-ballot-only elections in some elections in rural counties because he thought the risk of [[voter fraud]] was too high for such a bill.<ref>Svitek, Patrick (June 15, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/15/gov-greg-abbott-vetoes-50-bills-passed-texas-legislature/ Abbott vetoes 50 bills passed by Legislature]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref> On August 11, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law increasing the penalty for mail-in ballot fraud.<ref>Hope, Merrill (August 14, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/08/14/texas-inks-stiffer-penalties-mail-ballot-voter-fraud/ Texas Inks Stiffer Penalties for Mail Ballot Voter Fraud]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 27, 2018.</ref>
*Hope, Merrill (September 18, 2018). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2018/09/18/texas-declares-final-victory-in-voter-id-lawsuit/ Texas Declares ‘Final Victory’ in Voter ID Lawsuit]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved September 18, 2018.</ref> Also in June 2017, Abbott vetoed a bill that would have allowed mail-in-ballot-only elections in some elections in rural counties because he thought the risk of [[voter fraud]] was too high for such a bill.<ref>Svitek, Patrick (June 15, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/15/gov-greg-abbott-vetoes-50-bills-passed-texas-legislature/ Abbott vetoes 50 bills passed by Legislature]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 25, 2017.</ref> On August 11, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law increasing the penalty for mail-in ballot fraud.<ref>Hope, Merrill (August 14, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/08/14/texas-inks-stiffer-penalties-mail-ballot-voter-fraud/ Texas Inks Stiffer Penalties for Mail Ballot Voter Fraud]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved April 27, 2018.</ref>
====Other issues====
====Other issues====
A few days later, he signed a bill into law cracking down on sexual teacher-student relationships.<ref>Hope, Merrill (May 25, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/25/texas-governor-signs-law-crackdown-teacher-sex-misconduct/ Texas Governor Signs Law to Crackdown on Teacher Sex Misconduct]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 25, 2017.</ref> He also signed a bill into law expanding Texas's [[hate crime]] law to include crimes against police officers and judges.<ref>Price, Bob (June 17, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/17/texas-makes-killing-cops-hate-crime/ Texas Makes Attacking Cops a Hate Crime]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 17, 2017.</ref><ref>Blake, Andrew (May 25, 2017). [http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/may/25/texas-legislature-broadens-hate-crime-law-protect-/ Texas legislature broadens hate crime law to protect police officers, judges]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved May 25, 2017.</ref> On June 6, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law banning texting while driving in Texas.<ref>Platoff, Emma (June 6, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/06/abbott-signs-texting-while-driving-ban/ Gov. Abbott signs statewide ban on texting while driving]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Hope, Merrill (June 8, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/08/texting-driving-ban-coming-texas/ Texting While Driving Ban Coming to Texas]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 8, 2017.</ref>
A few days later, he signed a bill into law cracking down on sexual teacher-student relationships.<ref>Hope, Merrill (May 25, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/05/25/texas-governor-signs-law-crackdown-teacher-sex-misconduct/ Texas Governor Signs Law to Crackdown on Teacher Sex Misconduct]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved May 25, 2017.</ref> He also signed a bill into law expanding Texas's [[hate crime]] law to include crimes against police officers and judges.<ref>Price, Bob (June 17, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/17/texas-makes-killing-cops-hate-crime/ Texas Makes Attacking Cops a Hate Crime]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 17, 2017.</ref><ref>Blake, Andrew (May 25, 2017). [https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2017/may/25/texas-legislature-broadens-hate-crime-law-protect-/ Texas legislature broadens hate crime law to protect police officers, judges]. ''The Washington Times''. Retrieved May 25, 2017.</ref> On June 6, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law banning texting while driving in Texas.<ref>Platoff, Emma (June 6, 2017). [https://www.texastribune.org/2017/06/06/abbott-signs-texting-while-driving-ban/ Gov. Abbott signs statewide ban on texting while driving]. ''The Texas Tribune''. Retrieved June 7, 2017.</ref><ref>Hope, Merrill (June 8, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/08/texting-driving-ban-coming-texas/ Texting While Driving Ban Coming to Texas]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 8, 2017.</ref>
On June 9, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law expanding Texas's ban on [[female genital mutilation]].<ref>Hope, Merrill (June 14, 2017). [http://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/14/texas-expands-ban-female-genital-mutilation/ Texas Expands Ban on Female Genital Mutilation]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 15, 2017.</ref>
On June 9, 2017, Abbott signed a bill into law expanding Texas's ban on [[female genital mutilation]].<ref>Hope, Merrill (June 14, 2017). [https://www.breitbart.com/texas/2017/06/14/texas-expands-ban-female-genital-mutilation/ Texas Expands Ban on Female Genital Mutilation]. ''Breitbart News''. Retrieved June 15, 2017.</ref>
Polls in April 2018 showed Abbott "highly vulnerable" to the challenge of either of his two Democratic opponents, Lupe Valdez (the lesbian Dallas County Sheriff, who failed to pay her property taxes until late June 2018) or Andrew White (son of former Governor Mark White). Valdez and White competed in the May 22 runoff election for their party's nomination to contest Abbott's re-election bid; Valdez won.
Polls in April 2018 showed Abbott "highly vulnerable" to the challenge of either of his two Democratic opponents, Lupe Valdez (the lesbian Dallas County Sheriff, who failed to pay her property taxes until late June 2018) or Andrew White (son of former Governor Mark White). Valdez and White competed in the May 22 runoff election for their party's nomination to contest Abbott's re-election bid; Valdez won.