AUSTIN — In a move weighted with importance but not surprise, Gov. Greg Abbott is expected to announce for re-election Friday in San Antonio, the city where he launched his first gubernatorial bid four years ago.

The event will be on the heels of an “important campaign update” by Abbott on Facebook Live on Thursday evening, a continuation of his emphasis on social media to deliver his message.

Abbott, who previously said he’ll run for another term, is poised to formalize his campaign plans just days before the start of the special legislative session he called that will address issues key to the Republican base.

The special session’s topics include property tax reform; a proposal that would allow state-support of private school tuition for students with special needs; and restrictions on transgender people’s use of restrooms in schools and government buildings. The proposals failed during the regular session that ended May 29, as did an ambitious effort at school finance reform, amid complaints from some that Abbott was too low key in the process.

Abbott has said he saw his role as governor during the session as identifying his top issues and giving lawmakers enough room to grapple with them, becoming most involved “when we all begin the process of coming together.”

Despite criticism, Abbott remains a popular figure among Republicans statewide and has a campaign kitty that will be daunting to any potential challengers. He had more than $34 million in his campaign account in January, and that number is expected to grow when new fundraising totals are announced shortly.

Abbott isn’t expected to draw heavyweight opposition in the GOP primary. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced for re-election early this year to stave off rumors that he might mount a primary challenge to Abbott.

Democrats haven’t yet put forward a gubernatorial candidate. In 2014, Democrat Wendy Davis lost to Abbott by more than 20 percentage points.

This gubernatorial announcement — like Abbott’s first one — comes on the anniversary of the 1984 accident that broke his back and put him in a wheelchair. Abbott was jogging in the River Oaks area of Houston when a tree fell on him.

Abbott has often lauded his wife, Cecilia, for her love and support during his recovery and throughout their changed lives. The two have strong ties to San Antonio. Cecilia grew up in the city, and the two were married at Our Lady of the Lake.

At least one thing will be different about the San Antonio event. Four years ago, Abbott announced his bid in the sweltering summer heat at La Villita. This time, he’ll be at The Depot at Sunset Station, indoors with air conditioning.

pfikac@express-news.net

Twitter: @pfikac