Governor Abbott appoints new leaders for budget and policy teams

Governor Greg Abbott
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Governor Greg Abbott has announced new leadership for the Budget and Policy staff within his office. The announcement introduces several individuals to key roles responsible for advising on state budget and policy matters.

“These talented individuals have demonstrated their ability to deliver wins for the State of Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans deserve leadership that will enhance their daily lives and safeguard the foundational truths that unite us as one. I have full faith that together, with this highly-skilled and qualified leadership team, Texas will remain the premier state for freedom and prosperity.”

Tabatha Vasquez has been named Senior Advisor to the Governor, leading both the Budget and Policy Teams. Vasquez previously served as Policy Director and Deputy Budget and Policy Director in the governor’s office. Her experience includes various positions in the Texas Legislature, such as Chief of Staff in the House and Legislative Director in the Senate. She has also managed political campaigns across Texas and nationally.

Cory Fish will serve as Policy Director. Fish’s background includes serving as a Budget and Policy Advisor to Governor Abbott before being promoted to Deputy Policy Director. He was previously a fellow at the Cicero Institute in Austin, worked at a trade association, and at a non-profit law firm.

Fisher Reynolds takes on the role of Budget Director after serving as Chief of Staff at the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA). Reynolds also has prior experience as a Budget and Policy Advisor to Governor Abbott and as an Analyst with the Legislative Budget Board.

Danny Mittnacht is appointed Deputy Policy Director. Mittnacht joined Governor Abbott’s team during the 89th Legislative Session, focusing on technology, cybersecurity, financial services, occupational licensing, and housing issues. He has held multiple positions in the Texas House.

Jimmy Anderson will serve as Deputy Budget Director. Anderson previously advised on tax and economic development matters within the Office of the Governor. Before joining Governor Abbott’s team, he worked for the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

The Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott forms part of the executive branch of state government, operating statewide from its main offices in Austin at the State Insurance Building. Under Greg Abbott’s leadership since his election in 2014 (source), priorities have included job creation, economic opportunity expansion, education enhancement, protection of individual liberties, parental empowerment in schooling decisions, and border security efforts (source). The office has also contributed to significant jobs growth across Texas (source) while collaborating with businesses like Southwest Airlines on economic initiatives (source). In 2024, Greg Abbott was recognized among TIME’s 100 Most Influential People (source).



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