HOUSTON—As thousands of Republicans gathered in Houston for the Republican Party of Texas convention Thursday, party leaders repeatedly stressed a message of unity ahead of what they expect to be a fiercely contested November election cycle.
The biennial convention brings together delegates from across Texas to elect party leadership, update the party platform, and select legislative priorities for the upcoming legislative session.
But much of the opening-day focus centered on the elections that come first.
Republican Party of Texas Chairman Abraham George framed the political fight in spiritual and cultural terms, urging activists to remain engaged despite challenges.
“Every walk matters, every phone call matters, every conversation matters, every election matters,” George told delegates. “The future of Texas will not be decided by people who are sitting on the sidelines.”
George also called on Republicans to remain steadfast in their principles, telling attendees to “be strong and courageous” as they work to preserve faith, family, and freedom.
The race for the chairmanship, however, is currently among the more immediate issues on the minds of delegates, as George is being challenged in a five-way race. His primary opponent for the chair position is the current Vice Chair D’Rinda Randall.
While highlighting what she described as successes under the current administration, Randall argued the party could do more to support grassroots activists and local organizations.
“It’s not about the chair,” Randall said. “It’s about you and me.”
Randall praised precinct chairs and county leaders for their work across Texas, saying their efforts should be highlighted more frequently to encourage additional involvement in the party.
State Sen. Bob Hall addressed delegates and also focused on grassroots participation, recounting historical examples of elections and political outcomes decided by a single vote.
Hall compared votes to the famous “for want of a nail” proverb, arguing that seemingly insignificant actions can have major consequences.
“For the want of a vote, a precinct was lost,” Hall said in a version of the poem he adapted for convention attendees. “For the want of a state, a nation was lost.”
Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick warned delegates in senate district caucuses not to take November for granted, arguing Democrats are poised to spend heavily in statewide races.
Patrick told attendees he believes Republicans remain favored but said the political environment is more competitive than in previous election cycles.
“I would have told you in every other general election we’ve had that it’s 100 percent chance we’re going to win,” Patrick said. “This time I put it at 95 percent or so.”
Patrick specifically warned against divisions lingering from Republican primary contests, arguing that supporters of unsuccessful candidates must unite behind the party’s nominees.
“When it’s over, we come together,” Patrick said. “We have to work hard to get our neighbors to understand we have to come together as one.”
The convention continues through Saturday, with delegates expected to elect party officers, consider amendments to the Republican Party of Texas platform, and determine legislative priorities for the 2027 legislative session.
