Greg Abbott: Texas Governor Profile

Greg Abbott is an American politician, attorney, and jurist who has served as the 48th governor of Texas since 2015. Source 1 Born Gregory Wayne Abbott on November 13, 1957, he previously served as Texas Attorney General from 2002 to 2015. Source 3

Early Life and Background

Life-Changing Accident

In 1984, a tree fell on Abbott while jogging, breaking his spine and causing permanent paralysis from the waist down. He has used a wheelchair ever since. Source 4

Political Career

Abbott was first elected governor in 2014 and is currently serving his third term after winning re-election in 2022. Source 9 He announced his bid for a fourth term in November 2025. Source 7 In 2024, he was named to TIME’s 100 Most Influential People. Source 2

Policy Focus and Recent Activities

Abbott promotes conservative policies focused on job creation, economic growth, and defending constitutional rights. Source 6 He has also called for recalibrating ICE enforcement policies. Source 8

FAQ

When was Greg Abbott first elected governor of Texas? Greg Abbott was first elected governor in 2014 and took office in January 2015.

What caused Greg Abbott’s use of a wheelchair? A 1984 tree accident while jogging caused permanent paralysis from the waist down.

How many terms has Greg Abbott served as governor? Abbott is currently in his third term and running for a fourth in 2026.

What position did Greg Abbott hold before becoming governor? He served as Texas Attorney General from 2002 to 2015.

Has Greg Abbott received any national recognition? Yes, he was named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2024.

What are Greg Abbott’s main policy priorities? His priorities include job creation, defending constitutional rights, and promoting conservative Texas values.