The third-term governor appears determined to win any battle — even if it means scorched-earth primary crusades or trying to boot duly elected legislators from office.

Polling conducted by McLaughlin and Associates, which has worked for President Donald Trump, showed that Abbott saw a 5-point bump in approval after he opted to veto Senate Bill 3—the original legislation to prohibit THC in Texas—while Patrick's ratings dropped among voters who lean heavily Republican.

Critics say the governor is using relief dollars as leverage and political cover to push through President Trump's redistricting plan.

A constitutional law expert says the governor and the attorney general are treading upon separation of powers doctrine .