Elected officials outline legislative plans in Texas and across the US

Elected officials in Texas and other states outlined their legislative priorities on November 6, 2026. These officials, who won their respective races in the recent midterm elections, announced plans to address immigration, healthcare, and the economy. The announcements came during victory events and interviews with media outlets.

Bobby Pulido, elected to the U.S. House of Representatives from Texas’s 15th District, identified immigration reform as his top priority. Pulito stated that the issue is critical for border communities. He argued that immigration policy directly impacts the local economy. “Necesitamos y urge una reforma migratoria,” Pulido said. “Para nosotros que vivimos en la frontera, eso es más importante.” He added that many people focus on spending but overlook the economic connection to migration.

James Talrico, who holds a virtual majority of votes for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas, proposed specific tax and healthcare changes. Talrico committed to suspending the federal excise tax on gasoline and diesel. He said this move would lower prices by 18 cents per gallon immediately. Talrico also pledged to support universal healthcare coverage. He described the current economic system as rigged to benefit the top 1 percent. “Tenemos que aprobar la atención médica universal para que nadie quede en la bancarrota solo por enfermarse,” he stated.

Gina Hinojosa, elected governor of Texas, released a set of proposals one day after the election. Her plan includes reforming the state’s education system. She proposed dismissing Mike Morath, the current Texas commissioner of education, and eliminating direct contracts. Hinojosa also outlined goals for economic development and an inclusive government. In a statement, she noted that her transition begins the day after the election. “En enero, prestaré juramento, listo para liderar un gobierno del pueblo y para el pueblo,” Hinojosa said. She emphasized that the governor’s office belongs to all Texans, not just party members or major donors.

Nationwide, other elected officials shared similar economic and social agendas. Abdul El-Sayed, elected senator from Michigan, proposed ending military aid to Israel and stopping arms sales. He also supported legislation for Medicare for All. In Illinois, JB Pritzker, who was reelected as governor, joined Vice Governor Juliana Stratton and Senator Tammy Duckworth to announce a first-day agenda. Their plan, titled “Luchando por Illinois,” focuses on healthcare, education, and public safety. They seek to reverse Medicaid and SNAP cuts and restore the U.S. Department of Education’s authority.

In California, Xavier Becerra, the projected winner of the governor’s race, pledged to reduce the cost of living. He highlighted access to housing, mobility, and infrastructure. Becerra stated that his mission is to create a California that residents can afford and defend. In Georgia, Keisha Lance Bottoms, projected to win the governor’s office, committed to changing housing and justice policies. Adam Hamilton, a pastor and elected senator from Kansas, promised to focus on rural and agricultural needs. Josh Turek, the next senator from Iowa, pledged to work on disability rights and rural economic support.

Hakeem Jeffries, who will lead the Democratic caucus in the U.S. House, announced a 100-day plan. He intends to repeal Medicaid cuts and restore SNAP funding. Jeffries also proposed extending Affordable Care Act tax credits to lower medical costs. His plan includes eliminating tariffs that have raised prices for basic goods, gasoline, and consumer items. Jeffries said the House will act as a check on the executive branch. He proposed banning members of Congress from buying and selling stocks while in office.

Chuck Schumer, who aims to lead the Democratic caucus in the U.S. Senate, outlined his strategy. He plans to block executive budget initiatives and issue subpoenas. Schumer also wants to audit cabinet decisions through the Finance Committee. He stated that any military intervention abroad should require congressional authorization. These plans represent the first steps for the newly elected officials as they prepare to take office.