Texas Governor-Elect Names Voucher Foe and Union Leader to Key Transition Roles

Gina Hinojosa announced her initial transition team members on Thursday, selecting individuals from public education and organized labor sectors. The group includes a former Republican state representative who previously opposed outgoing Governor Greg Abbott's school voucher proposal.

The selection of Ernest Bailes stands out for its cross-partisan nature. Bailes, a conservative from rural East Texas, joined Democratic colleagues in 2023 to block Abbott's voucher legislation. Abbott subsequently backed primary challengers against those Republicans in 2024, a strategy that resulted in Bailes' defeat. Hinojosa, who served with Bailes in the Texas House, described him as a champion for public schools and a close ally on education.

Bailes stated, "We will put partisanship aside. We will work together for what is best for the kids of the state of Texas."

Hinojosa also appointed Tamala Barksdale, a former Austin ISD trustee who served on the school board with the governor-elect. During her campaign, Hinojosa pledged to increase public school funding and replace Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath with an educator. Barksdale worked on Hinojosa's campaign.

Ryan Pollock, executive director of the Texas State Building and Construction Trades Council, was named to the team. A union electrician, Pollock said the role reflects a commitment to creating good jobs. He noted, "This is about an economy that works for all Texans, and we do that by ensuring that working Texans get the high-quality training that they need to do the work that needs to be done, and so they’re able to do that work safely and with dignity."

Joe Madden, a Houston public affairs consultant with experience in the Texas Legislature and Harris County government, will serve as executive director. Hinojosa said her team has been in communication with Abbott's staff regarding the transfer of power. She described Abbott as gracious and noted both sides are committed to a smooth process. Additional appointments are expected in the coming weeks as the staff reviews resumes.