The first forum for candidates running for governor was held on Monday night in Tom Green County by the Tom Green County Democratic Party.
On Monday night, all ten Democrats running for governor gathered for the first forum of 2018. The event was the first time that the candidates have met on the campaign trail. The evening kicked off with remarks by retired public school teacher Grady Yarbrough and concluded with remarks from former Dallas County sheriff Lupe Valdez.
During the forum, each of the candidates outlined their platforms and some of the contenders used their time to criticize Governor Greg Abbott.
"I have been watching our governor for the last four years," candidate Grady Yarbrough said. "He has been doing absolutely nothing."
Other candidates also decried the influence of political action committees in this election cycle.
"I don't take PAC money," candidate Jeffrey Payne said. "My campaign is funded by the men and women of Texas."
All Democrats running for governor of Texas were present for the forum. Those running for the Texas Democratic Party's nomination for governor are: Grady Yarbrough; Demetria Smith; Cedric Davis, Sr.; Andrew White; Adrian Ocegueda; Joe Mumbach; James Jolly Clark; Jeffrey Payne; Tom Wakely and Lupe Valdez.
The Democratic primary for governor will be held on March 6th.
