Recent polls suggest the race has become more competitive than anticipated, with some surveys showing Hinojosa with a narrow lead, a development that has prompted Abbott's campaign to increase its public engagement against her. Abbott has publicly dismissed the poll numbers, stating that "polls don't win elections, and polls are often wrong."

Despite his public statements, Abbott's campaign has announced a $12 million advertising buy targeting Hinojosa's voting record on property taxes. The campaign claims Hinojosa voted multiple times for higher property taxes, a characterization Hinojosa disputes, stating she has never voted to increase property taxes and that the cited votes are taken out of context.

Beyond property taxes, Abbott's campaign is also focusing on Hinojosa's stances on education, public safety, and issues concerning transgender Texans. Political analysts suggest Abbott's shift in strategy is an effort to define Hinojosa for voters as her poll numbers have improved.

Analysts also note that Hinojosa has used the initial period of Abbott's less direct focus to introduce herself to voters, contributing to the race's increased competitiveness. The affordability of living in Texas is a central theme for both campaigns, with Abbott promoting his "Abbott Affordability Agenda."