Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa held her first press conference Thursday, outlining the next steps in her transition to the governor’s office and announcing several members of her transition team. She emphasized a commitment to building an administration that represents Texans across political and ideological lines.

Tamala Barksdale, a former Austin ISD school board colleague of Hinojosa, introduced the governor-elect at the press conference. Barksdale will also serve on Hinojosa's transition team.

Hinojosa said her team has spent months planning and consulting with experts to prepare for the transition and ensure her administration is ready to govern.

“Please understand, this is a transition for the whole state of Texas,” Hinojosa said as she introduced members of her transition team.

While additional appointments are still being finalized, Hinojosa announced several individuals she has worked with over the years, including representatives from labor, public education and local government.

Among those named was Ryan Pollock, a union electrician and executive director of the Texas Building and Construction Trades Council. Pollock expressed support for Hinojosa and her commitment to working Texans.

“Union trade workers like myself are so proud and grateful for Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa and for the good people of the state for wanting to fight for regular working Texans,” Pollock said.

Hinojosa also announced Ernest Bailes, a conservative Republican and former state lawmaker whom she described as a champion for public schools. She pointed to his inclusion as an example of her commitment to a bipartisan transition that brings different perspectives to the table.

Bailes said he believes in Hinojosa's leadership and the potential for collaboration across party lines.

“I believe in Gina and I have faith that we will be able to do good things for the state of Texas.”

“We will put partanship aside and we will work together for what is best for the kids of the state of Texas.”

Joe Madden, a Houston native with extensive experience in Harris County government, will serve as executive director of the transition. Madden has worked on government transitions in Harris County and has been involved in overseeing emergency management issues.

Madden said his experience in government and commitment to public education will inform his work during the transition.

“I have worked in and around government for 23 years. I am deeply honored to serve as the Executive Director of this transition.”

“I went to work fighting for public schools. It is how I started my career in government”.

Throughout the press conference, Hinojosa reiterated that her transition would reflect the interests and experiences of Texans statewide, rather than focusing solely on her political party.

She said Texans are tired of political division and culture wars, emphasizing that her priority will be delivering results for the state.

“I am not going to be the governor for just Democrats.”

Hinojosa's announcement signals an effort to establish a bipartisan foundation as she prepares to take office, with her transition team bringing together individuals with backgrounds in organized labor, public education and government.