By Trendsetter Tribune 
Houston businessman Andrew White stunned Democrats on Monday by abruptly ending his bid for Texas governor and throwing his support behind state Rep. Gina Hinojosa — saying the party must unite if it hopes to defeat Gov. Greg Abbott in November.
White said the decision came down to math, momentum, and responsibility.
“With the primary just weeks away, the responsible choice is to come together to defeat Greg Abbott and protect our schools, hospitals and infrastructure,” White said, adding that he plans to vote for Hinojosa in both the primary and general election.
The son of former Texas Gov. Mark White, he campaigned as an independent-minded Democrat promising to bridge political divides. But fundraising stalled, and despite internal polling that placed him second in a crowded nine-candidate field, White admitted his campaign couldn’t build the resources needed to compete.
“Instead of fighting this fight against Gina, I think it’s better for me to step aside and Gina save her resources so she can beat Greg Abbott in November,” he said in a video message.
White’s exit reshapes the Democratic primary, leaving Hinojosa as the clear frontrunner alongside former U.S. Rep. Chris Bell and retired firefighter and rancher Bobby Cole, among others. A recent poll showed Hinojosa leading with 41% support among likely Democratic voters.
In a statement, Hinojosa called White’s decision both selfless and strategic.
“It takes incredible courage to enter the ring and run for statewide office in Texas, and it takes even more to step down when you know what’s at stake,” she said, thanking White for his endorsement and leadership.
With the primary fast approaching, Democrats now face a sharper choice — and an increasingly unified message — heading into November.