Dem James Talarico leads Trump-backed Ken Paxton in Texas Senate race
Key Points:
- Democrat James Talarico is gaining significant momentum in Texas, with polling leads wider than those seen in Beto O’Rourke’s 2018 Senate race and strong grassroots enthusiasm, offering Democrats a rare chance to flip the traditionally Republican state.
- Talarico's campaign raised $64 million from July to September, vastly outpacing Republican Ken Paxton’s $18 million in the same period, although Paxton benefits from over $200 million in outside spending, largely funded by Elon Musk and MAGA super PACs.
- Recent campaign events highlighted a stark divide, with Talarico drawing unexpectedly large crowds in deep-red areas like Lubbock, while Trump campaigned alongside Paxton nearby, signaling Republican concern over the tight race.
- Supporters of Talarico emphasize his integrity and authenticity, contrasting him with Paxton’s legal controversies and impeachment history, while some Republicans remain confident the state will stay red despite the competitive race.
- With Election Day approaching on November 3, the outcome will either break the GOP’s long-standing dominance in Texas or leave Democrats still searching for a viable path to turn the state blue.