With the 89th Texas Legislative Session just days away, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has made headlines by announcing a record-breaking $33.5 million raised for his 2026 re-election campaign. The substantial fundraising haul appears to solidify Patrick’s intent to seek another term and quiet rumors about his political future.
Patrick, who first won the office in 2014 and secured re-elections in 2018 and 2022, boasts a stronghold in Texas politics as a key figure for the conservative agenda. Allen Blakemore, Patrick’s senior political advisor, underscored his influence, stating, "Lt. Governor Dan Patrick continues to be a clarion voice for the conservative majority in the State of Texas. His leadership keeps Texas as the very best place to live, work, and raise a family."
The announcement comes with another notable achievement — Patrick reported holding the second-highest cash-on-hand balance for any state officeholder in Texas history. The only officeholder to surpass this milestone was Gov. Greg Abbott, who amassed $55 million during his 2022 re-election campaign.
Patrick publicly reaffirmed his intent to run again during The Texan’s 88th Session Kickoff in January 2023, stating he "absolutely" planned to remain in office. His enthusiasm for his role as leader of the Texas Senate was reiterated in a social media post last November, where he declared, "My best opportunity to serve the people is right here. I love what I do."
Beyond his personal campaign, Patrick has expanded his political influence by launching the Texas Senate Leadership Fund, a political action committee aimed at supporting GOP candidates in the state’s upper chamber.
Despite his strong financial positioning and established political leadership, public opinion remains divided. A February 2024 poll by the Texas Politics Project revealed 29% of Texans strongly disapprove of Patrick's performance, while 24% somewhat approve, and 18% express strong approval. Meanwhile, 16% remain neutral, and 8% are uncertain.
