Republican Party of Texas Chairman James Dickey issued the following statement:

“Congratulations to Texas Democratic Party Chairman Gilberto Hinojosa on finally finding a candidate willing to enter the gubernatorial race. The illustrious candidate, Lupe Valdez, is his party’s 12th choice after a number of other potential candidates all passed on the opportunity. It’s clear even to Texas Democrats that there is no chance of Texas turning blue. But as they say––12th time’s the charm.“