Editor’s Note: The article and video has been updated to reflect the correct name of the former governor.

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Andrew White, son of former Texas governor Mark White, has announced his intention to seek the office of Texas governor as a Democrat.

In a press release, White, 54, stated that he aims to run as an “Independent Democrat” who can unite progressives, moderates and independents.

“It’s time to end the culture wars so we can focus on what’s important: our schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. It’s also time for everyone to vote in a primary, so we can elect balanced
leaders and get rid of these extremists.” White said.

White, an entrepreneur for 30 years and one-time candidate for Texas governor in 2018, seeks to paint himself as a moderate and independent candidate, distancing himself from culture wars and partisan extremes.

“I may not pass all the purity tests — but I’ll change the way things get done in Austin. I’m not a culture warrior – I’m a problem solver. Whether it’s floods, school shootings, or the grid failing, we need leaders who prepare us before disaster strikes, not just show up after.” White said.
In his announcement, White cast blame on Gov. Greg Abbott for the heightened level of
political tension in recent years.

“After 30 years in office, Governor Abbott is the architect of these culture wars and responsible for the state of our schools, hospitals and infrastructure. He should be playing pickleball, not politics. I’m asking for your vote this March. I’ll keep us safe and focus on the things that matter.” White said.

This is White’s second attempt to win the Democratic nomination for governor. In 2018 he lost a Democratic primary runoff election to former Dallas County sheriff Lupe Valdez. She lost to Abbott in the general election.

During his time as a Houston entrepreneur, White founded and sold four different businesses that dealt in residential services, border security and clean tech. He also holds a bachelor degree in religious studies from the University of Virginia and a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Texas.

White will face at least three other candidates in next year’s Democratic primary election, including retired firefighter Bobby Cole, former Marine Nick Pappas and Bay City Councilman Benjamin Flores. Abbott has already declared that he will run for reelection.