Davis, who rocketed to national prominence and became a darling of the left as a result of a dramatic 11-hour filibuster earlier this summer against a state late-term abortion ban, announced her candidacy via e-mail and social media, before taking the stage at Wiley G. Thomas Jr. Coliseum. 

"We love Texas not only for how good it is, but for how great we know it can be," Davis told a crowd of assembled supporters. "With the right kind of leadership, the great state of Texas will keep its sacred promise that where you start has nothing to do with how far you can go." 

News of Davis' candidacy drew a swift response from Texas pro-life activists.

Outside the auditorium where Davis made the announcement a group of protesters had already gathered, bearing signs reading, "No to Wendy, No to Murder," according to The Chronicle.

Texas Right to Life issued a statement accusing Davis of being “a leader in the war on women, making sure that pregnant women fall prey to the substandard care at Texas abortion mills.”

In an ad that will begin playing on radio stations this weekend, the pro-life group labels Davis an "abortion zealot," pointing out that she opposes any limits on abortion, and has called abortion “sacred ground.”

“Wendy Davis puts late term abortion ahead of our faith, our families, and Texas values,” says the ad. “Wendy Davis believes terminating babies even after 1/2 way through the pregnancy is okay.  She is wrong on life, wrong for our children, and wrong for Texas.” 

Davis’ filibuster, with the assistance of a mob of unruly protesters who shouted down a vote, temporarily derailed the highly contentious late-term abortion ban, which also included stricter health regulations on abortion clinics, and restrictions on medical abortions. However, the bill subsequently passed after Gov. Rick Perry called a special session.

Perry, considered by many to be one of the strongest pro-life politicians in the country, will be stepping down following the election next November.

In her bid for the governorship, Davis will be going head to head with Texas attorney general, Greg Abbot, who has a strong pro-life record.

"Once again, Texas Democrats are attempting to conjure support for California-style candidates that try to sell Obama's liberal agenda and go against what makes Texas great,” said Abbott in a statement released Thursday.

"Nonetheless, we welcome Senator Davis to the race, and look forward to presenting the clear differences and debating the important issues that will preserve the economic miracle in Texas."