Governor Greg Abbott spoke at the 2026 Texas Rally for Life, which took place on the South Steps of the Texas Capitol in Austin. The event, organized by the Texas Alliance for Life (TAL), gathers supporters from across Texas to advocate for anti-abortion policies.
During his address, Governor Abbott stated: “We are united by the truth that our Creator endowed us with the right to life itself. There is no freedom more precious than life itself. All of you have been life savers, and thousands of newborn babies are the result of your heroic efforts. Thank you for being a part of the movement that has made Texas the beacon for life in the United States of America.”
Abbott discussed recent legislation intended to restrict abortion in Texas. These measures include Senate Bill 33, which bans taxpayer funding for abortions; Senate Bill 1388, directing Thriving Texas Family Grants toward organizations that do not provide abortions; and House Bill 7, prohibiting both manufacturing and distribution of abortion-inducing drugs.
Other notable attendees included Amy O’Donnell, Executive Director of TAL; James Booker, Executive Director of Life Choice Medical Clinic and Care; Rebecca Contreras, President and CEO of AvantGarde LLC; Bishop Daniel E. Garcia from the Diocese of Austin; abortion survivor Claire Culwell; Representatives Don McLaughlin and Hilary Hickland; along with other faith leaders and advocates.
The governor referenced previous actions during his administration and as Attorney General aimed at further restricting abortion access. In May 2021, he signed Senate Bill 8 into law to prohibit abortions after detection of a fetal heartbeat and House Bill 1280 to ban most abortions in Texas following the Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade.
Photos from the event will be made available when ready.
