Poll: GOP Voters in Key Districts Oppose Voucher Bill

A new grassroots-funded poll of Republican primary voters in three Texas House districts shows strong opposition to school voucher legislation, complicating the statewide narrative that GOP voters broadly support the issue.

The poll surveyed nearly 1,800 Republican voters across the Mike Olcott (HD60), Caroline Fairly(HD87), and Wes Virdell (HD 53) districts over the weekend. Respondents were asked their views on Senate Bill 2, which would create Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), commonly referred to as school vouchers. Poll organizers said the questions used both terms and were phrased in plain, neutral language to ensure clarity.

In the Olcott District, 74% of respondents said they oppose vouchers, with 75% saying they would vote against SB2 and an equal percentage reporting they would be less likely to support a candidate who votes for it.

The Fairly District showed even stronger opposition, with 78% opposed, 78% against the bill, and 77% saying it would negatively affect their vote.

In the Virdell District, 71% opposed vouchers, 72% would vote against SB2, and 72% said they’d be less likely to support a legislator who backs the bill.

“This effort was 100% grassroots—funded by small-dollar donations from Republican voters who want their voices heard,” said Amy Fennell a spokesperson for the polling project. “Our data shows school choice still has support in principle, but voters do not back the current proposal.”

With pressure from Gov. Greg Abbott and others to pass the bill, some Republican lawmakers may find themselves at odds with their own constituents. Organizers say the results offer legislators political cover to oppose SB2 or support a compromise amendment that would send the issue to voters via a referendum.

Education is expected to be a major issue in next year’s Republican primary elections.