The Brief

Former U.S. Rep. Chris Bell, a Houston Democrat, announced his second bid for Texas governor on a platform focused on ethics reform and public education.

Bell directly accused incumbent Republican Gov. Greg Abbott of "corruption" and catering to special interests, particularly regarding the push for private school vouchers.

Bell joins an already crowded 2026 Democratic primary field, while Abbott simultaneously announced his campaign for an unprecedented fourth term with a significant war chest.

AUSTIN - Former U.S. Rep. Chris Bell on Tuesday announced his second bid for Texas governor, launching a campaign centered on ethics reform, public education and what he described as "corruption" in state government under Republican Gov. Greg Abbott.

What we know:

Chris Bell is a

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