Austin, TX — Today, after revelations that Governor Abbott is busing people down to knock doors for Gary Gates and starring in a Gates television ad, the Texas Democratic Party asks why is Governor Abbott supporting a known child abuser?

Governor Abbott must rescind his endorsement of Gary Gates immediately.

The Facts Are Clear: Gary Gate’s children were removed from his home after credible claims of child abuse. In 2000, Gates’ children alleged that he poisoned them with throw up medicine if they ate food they weren’t allowed to eat, beat them with boards and belts, sent them to school to be publicly humiliated, and physically abused them among many other disturbing charges.

The children were eventually returned to Gates, NOT because Gates was exonerated for the abuse, but because CPS had abused due process in seizing and interviewing them.

Through all of this, Governor Abbott has backed Gates, stating, “I ask the voters of Fort Bend County to send Gary to Austin to fight alongside me.”

Backing a credibly-accused child abuser. Does Greg Abbott have no shame?

Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“Child abusers do not belong in the Texas Legislature, period. Governor Abbott must immediately rescind his endorsement of Gary Gates.

“This goes beyond politics and partisanship. This is about what’s right and what’s wrong. After spending the last week betraying Texas values, Governor Abbott has a chance to do something that’s right. We hope he chooses Texas children over partisan politics.

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