In a scathing op-ed published on Sunday, the Houston Chronicle, Texas' largest newspaper, criticized Governor Greg Abbott for his support of a "disturbing" school voucher program. The editorial condemned Abbott's "obsession" with vouchers, which would allow parents to use state funds for private school tuition.

The state of Texas has witnessed strong bipartisan resistance to the idea of using public funds for private education for years. Despite this opposition, Abbott spent a staggering $6.1 million between January 26 and February 24 to unseat House Republicans who had consistently voted against his school voucher program, according to campaign finance reports.

Despite calling legislators back for four special sessions, Abbott's yearlong fight to pass the voucher bill ultimately ended in failure. A united Democratic coalition, along with about two dozen Republicans from rural areas that heavily rely on public schools, successfully blocked it.

However, Abbott did manage to gain the victories of nine pro-voucher newcomers in the recent primary on Super Tuesday, replacing nine fellow Republicans who had opposed the program. This shift in support among legislators alarmed the Houston Chronicle, leading them to caution against the potential damage Abbott's "obsession" with vouchers could have on the state's public education system.

The newspaper's editorial board accused Abbott of aligning himself with wealthy special interests, specifically naming West Texas billionaires Tim Dunn and the Wilks brothers, who they claim aim to redirect public resources into private Christian education. The Chronicle expressed concern over the potential transformation of Texas into a Christian-dominated, biblically based state.

The editorial also highlighted the financial challenges faced by public schools in the state, stating that nearly every school district in Harris County is underfunded and in crisis. Public school advocates have raised the alarm about the potential costs to the education system if vouchers become a reality.

Abbott, undeterred by his previous defeat, continues to endorse House Republicans who support his voucher program. Of the 10 primary challengers he endorsed, five were successful, and another three managed to secure a spot in the state's May 28 runoff.

The Houston Chronicle warned that based on previous votes for the voucher bill, Abbott only needs 11 more pro-voucher votes to succeed in November's general election. The newspaper's editorial board emphasized the need for robust debate on the issue of school choice and vouchers.

Newsweek has reached out to Abbott's office and the Association of Texas Professional Educators for comment on this matter.

As the debate on school vouchers continues to unfold, the Houston Chronicle's editorial serves as a stark reminder of the potential repercussions and the ongoing battle between those who advocate for educational choice and those who seek to protect and adequately fund the state's public schools.