Texas Gov. Greg Abbott Spent Millions on Attack Ads Against Jasmine Crockett

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by J. David Goodman

February 25, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has launched an extensive advertising campaign targeting Democratic candidate Jasmine Crockett, spending millions on attack ads aimed at mobilizing Republican voters ahead of November's election. This strategic move reflects Abbott's efforts to energize his base and potentially swing key districts in favor of his party. Abbott's decision to focus on negative advertisements is part of a broader Republican strategy to highlight perceived weaknesses in Democratic candidates. These ads are designed to cast Crockett in a negative light, emphasizing issues that resonate with conservative voters. The approach contrasts with traditional campaign tactics by prioritizing attack over positive messaging, aiming to undermine confidence in the opposition. The timing and content of these ads suggest a calculated effort to influence voter sentiment as the election approaches. By focusing on Crockett's policies and past actions, Abbott seeks to create a narrative that aligns with Republican talking points, potentially swaying undecided voters or motivating base supporters to turn out at the polls. This aggressive ad strategy underscores the high stakes of the upcoming election, where control of key legislative seats and influence over state policies are at play. The effectiveness of these ads will depend on their ability to resonate with the target audience and alter voter perceptions without backfiring, which could risk alienating moderate or independent voters. For readers interested in political strategy and its impact on elections, this move highlights the lengths candidates are willing to go to gain a competitive edge. It also raises questions about the role of negative campaigning in shaping public opinion and voter behavior, making it a critical issue for those following the 2024 election cycle.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/25/2026