Why is Texas Governor Greg Abbott in a wheelchair? Jennifer Roback Updated: Apr 30 2021, 14:36 ET Jennifer Roback REPUBLICAN Greg Abbott as been governor of Texas for nearly six years. 3 Why is Governor Greg Abbott in a wheelchair? Abbott has been in a wheelchair since he was 26 when a freak accident paralyzed him from the waist down. Back in July 1984, Abbott was jogging after a storm and an oak tree fell on him, causing him to need two steel rods implanted into his spine and undergo extensive rehab at the TIRR Memorial Hermann in Houston, TX. According to his website, the recovery process reminded him of his life lessons including perseverance. The accident has not stopped Abbott from having a successful career in politics.