![This endorsement is Abbott's way of "mak[ing] good on his threat to politically target fellow Republicans who oppose school vouchers," according to the Texas Tribune](https://media.kcentv.com/assets/KCEN/images/ec7ece21-9060-431f-9377-52cd7d586638/ec7ece21-9060-431f-9377-52cd7d586638_1920x1080.jpg)
TEMPLE, Texas — Gov. Greg Abbott made a stop in Temple Friday to endorse Republican candidate Hillary Hickland who is running for House District 55.
The seat represents much of Temple and Belton, as well as other areas in Bell County. It is currently occupied by incumbent Hugh Shine, R, who is vying to keep his seat in the house.
"There's a lot of people in Austin that are paid to be there and that have different agendas that are not your voice," Hickland said. "Who is representing you? Pick me. I'll do it."
Abbott endorsing Hickland marks the first time since May 2022 that the governor endorsed a primary opponent of a currently held Republican seat, according to the Texas Tribune.
The Tribune continues that this endorsement is Abbott's way of "mak[ing] good on his threat to politically target fellow Republicans who oppose school vouchers." Earlier this month, Shine was one of the 21 Texas Republicans who voted to remove education savings accounts from Abbott's education package.
Shine stated, "This is all about my vote against House Bill 1, the voucher bill. I don't feel threatened because I represent the district and the needs of the people in the district."
Abbott was very adamant in his support of Hickland on Friday as he stated,"We need a champion like Hillary Hickland to make sure we deliver on a promise of ensuring parents will be able to choose the best school for their child," Abbott said.
"I think the governor is really tired of fighting politicians who are in Austin, even politicians in his own party that are fighting against his priorities," Hickland said. "He's tired of it and I agree, I'm ready to partner with him so that we can get the business of the state done. It should not take a regular session and for special session to do the business of the state."
Dr. Bobby Ott, who is the superintendent of Temple Independent School District, invited Abbott to visit and tour the district. He took to Twitter to say it was his fourth time to invite Abbott to show him a glimpse into public education in Central Texas.