Hinojosa Names Three to Texas Transition Team
Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa has appointed Ernest Bailes, Ryan Pollock, and Joe Madden to help prepare for her administration.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in People
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Gina Hinojosa, who defeated Republican Governor Greg Abbott, named three men to her Texas governor-elect transition team. The appointees include former Republican state representative Ernest Bailes, Ryan Pollock, and Joe Madden.
Why it matters
The appointments mark the start of preparations for a new administration, ending Republican control of the Texas governor's office. Hinojosa has outlined priorities including public education, affordability, and health care.
Ernest Bailes represented Texas House District 18 from 2017 to 2025 before founding Repro Select, a livestock reproductive services business. Hinojosa is expected to be sworn in on January 19, 2027, with the scope of each appointee's transition role not yet detailed.
The players
Gina Hinojosa
Gina Hinojosa is a Texas Democrat who defeated Republican Governor Greg Abbott in the state's governor's election.
Ernest Bailes
Ernest Bailes is a former Republican Texas state representative who served House District 18 and founded Repro Select.
The details
Hinojosa held a news conference Thursday to discuss the transition. Bailes now works as a general contractor and project manager, Madden works as a consultant, and Pollock is affiliated with the Texas State Building and Construction Trades Council.
Timeline
• 2017 to 2025: Ernest Bailes serves as Texas House District 18 representative.
• November 5, 2026: Hinojosa's election victory leads to the transition team announcement.
• January 19, 2027: Hinojosa is expected to be sworn in as governor.
People Moves
The transition team appointments mark a departure from the Republican control of the Texas governor's office, which Hinojosa's election ends with her January 2027 swearing-in. The incoming administration is assembling its team as it prepares to take office.
The transition team will help shape the priorities Texans can expect from the new administration on public education, affordability, and health care. Residents may see policy changes in these areas once the new governor takes office in January 2027.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions often signal shifts in state priorities, and Texans should watch how the incoming administration translates its stated goals into policy. Following appointments and early announcements can help readers anticipate changes before they take effect.
What happens next
Hinojosa is expected to be sworn in on January 19, 2027.
Further reading
Explore more People coverage to see how leadership transitions shape the state's business landscape.
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