Texas Democratic Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa is adopting a more conciliatory approach toward Elon Musk following her election victory. This shift in tone comes after she campaigned vigorously against a proposed land deal involving SpaceX, a company closely associated with Musk. Hinojosa indicated that she is open to a working relationship with his enterprises, provided they operate on terms acceptable to the state.
During her campaign, Hinojosa emphasized the need to protect Texas resources. In an October press release, she stated that she would protect the state’s land and livelihoods rather than selling out to the highest bidder. She argued that Texans deserve a leader who prioritizes the people over corporate interests. However, since winning the election, her public messaging has become more pragmatic.
In an interview with CNN on Thursday, just two days after election night, Hinojosa expressed confidence in establishing a strong partnership with Musk and his companies. She clarified that the relationship must be built on mutual respect, stating that it cannot involve running over the people of Texas. She noted that her role as governor allows for a different dynamic than her position as a challenger.
The primary point of contention involves Boca Chica State Park, a 1,000-acre coastal reserve located at the southernmost tip of Texas. The park is situated near SpaceX’s Starbase, one of its major rocket launch facilities. Negotiations regarding a potential land sale or swap between the state and the private company have been ongoing for several years.
A 2024 agenda notice from the Cameron County Commission outlined a proposed land swap. Under this plan, Texas would transfer 43 acres of Boca Chica to SpaceX in exchange for 477 acres in the nearby area. This arrangement was intended to allow the company to expand its launch infrastructure.
In August 2025, the commission approved a separate and smaller proposal. This authorization allowed the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to sell SpaceX four noncontiguous tracts of land totaling approximately 1.9 acres. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission subsequently voted to approve this specific transaction, with records indicating they authorized the executive director to take necessary steps to dispose of the land.
At her first post-election press conference, Hinojosa did not rule out the project entirely. However, she requested that the decision be paused until she assumes office. She confirmed that she spoke with the executive director of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to ensure the issue was not on the immediate agenda and that no action would be taken during the transition period.
During her campaign, Hinojosa criticized outgoing Republican Governor Greg Abbott for considering the deal. She framed the negotiations as a capitulation to the world’s wealthiest business owner. In a written statement, she accused Abbott of handing over state land and questioned whether Texas was being shaped for the people or for billionaires.
Musk responded to the political dynamics with a social media post, noting that SpaceX and Tesla prospered in Texas due to pro-business policies. He contrasted the state’s environment with California, citing high taxes and overregulation as reasons for relocating major domestic expansions and headquarters to Texas.
Hinojosa’s transition team did not respond to inquiries regarding any changes in her outlook on the SpaceX negotiations or the specific considerations that might influence the final decision. She is scheduled to take the oath of office on January 19, 2027.
