AUSTIN– Texas pride seemed palpable at the Greg Abbott watch party after Republican victories swept the state. The audience at Austin’s Moody Theater was full of delight and enthusiasm. Guests enjoyed dinner and cocktails while listening intently to all of the event’s speakers, from Christie Craddick to Ted Cruz.
Victory anthems like “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor and “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled were played between each speech, further exciting the victorious crowd.
The celebratory atmosphere was heightened when Abbott’s daughter, Audrey appeared onstage to introduce her father. Footage of Texas landscapes and Abbott’s interactions with voters was projected on screens in the venue before Audrey’s entrance, which was met by cheers of unprecedented volume in the theater.
Audrey thanked all Republican voters, especially young ones.
“[Abbott] will take care of your family just as well as he has taken care of mine,” she said.
Cecilia and Audrey stood behind Abbott during his speech, when he thanked voters and promised them his hard work.
“Whether you voted for me, against me, or didn’t vote at all, I’m going to work every day to keep Texas the best state in the United States of America,” said Abbott.
Abbott then thanked his family, noting that his wife is making history by being Texas’s first Hispanic first lady, a statement that was met by enthusiastic cheers from the audience.
Abbott focused on his desire to improve laws on immigration, employment and education, mentioning his belief that every Texan should have equal opportunities.
“I am living proof that a young man can have his life broken in half and rise to be the governor of this great state,” he said. “I promise to provide that grand opportunity to every citizen. The opportunity to succeed…should be the birthright of every Texas child. There are no second-class dreams, and there should be no second-class schools.”
Abbott closed his speech by urging all Texans to unite and work together for the good of the state.
“As Texas goes, so goes America. As America goes, so goes the world,” said Abbott. Tonight, we celebrate. Tomorrow, we go to work. May God always bless the great state of Texas.”
Red, white and blue balloons floated down from the ceiling as the Texas flag backdrop rose to reveal Pat Green. He ended the event singing, “Texas On My Mind.”
