AUSTIN, Texas – Lights, camera, action: tonight, Greg “Governor Absent” Abbott’s keynote at the Republican National Convention built upon his audition for his next job – completely neglecting the responsibilities of the job he already holds. 

Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa released the following statement: 

“Tonight, thousands of Texans’ in the ‘energy capital of the world’ were unable to view Abbott’s address due to the devastating effects of Hurricane Beryl. No where in his speech did he mention how the storm led to fatalities, boil water notices, improvised hospitals, property damage, and how it caused millions to go without power during extreme heat. Crisis after crisis, Abbott has used this authority to cater to himself, billionaire donors and corporations instead of prioritizing relief for Texans. Hurricane Beryl is no different.

“Under Greg Abbott’s leadership – Texans are no stranger to suffering. The governor’s presidential ambitions will amplify his tax-payer funded political stunts and extreme vision for Texas while simultaneously continuing to leave our communities behind. Texas is strong because we stand together in times of crisis. Our resilience shines through when we support one another, proving that true strength comes from community and compassion – not because of Greg Abbott’s reckless leadership.”

Texans deserve better than Greg Abbott:

• Houston Chronicle: If Greg Abbott is going to run for president in 2028, it starts now. What's at stake at the RNC

• “When governors start traveling the world, it’s a sure sign they are trying to build up their credentials on a national political stage, said Larry Sabato, the director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia.”

• “Another sign? National conventions.”

• Texas Tribune: Gov. Greg Abbott defends trip to East Asia during Hurricane Beryl

• “Among those piling on against the governor was President Joe Biden, who accused Abbott and Patrick of taking too long to request a disaster declaration that would unlock federal aid for an array of emergency services and supplies, including debris removal and generators.”

• Houston Chronicle: Texas leaders were slower to request federal Beryl aid than in past hurricanes

• “Abbott’s office has not said whether it started working on a federal disaster declaration request ahead of Beryl. The governor left the country on a pre-planned trip Friday, when Beryl was still over the Yucatán Peninsula and its Texas trajectory was uncertain.”

• KHOU 11: Houston communities band together to feed those still dealing with power outages

• “In La Porte and Pasadena, neighbors are coming together to help those still dealing with power outages from Beryl. They're offering free food and snacks -- anything they can do for their neighbors in need.”

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