In the historically Republican stronghold of Texas, a competitive Senate race is unfolding as 37-year-old Democratic state Representative James Talarico challenges Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, as Democrats hope to secure their first Senate victory in the state in 38 years.
The race has transformed the so-called “red state” into a critical battleground that could determine control of the Senate. Talarico, a former middle school teacher and Christian seminarian, is building support in Hispanic-majority regions by running a grassroots campaign without intervention from Democratic leaders.
Talarico’s political identity traces back to a Central San Antonio classroom. In 2011, he spent two years teaching at a middle school that later closed due to local budget shortfalls. Laura Luna, a 43-year-old executive with the teacher preparation nonprofit that recruited him, recalled his selection interview. She noted that Talarico used a three-legged stool during a mock lesson to explain that the three branches of government must remain strong and connected. She remarked that he displayed the charisma of a future elected official.
Using biblical references that resonate with conservative voters, Talarico is focusing on winning back Hispanic voters who supported Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. During an October 25 campaign stop in Weslaco, a border city where roughly 90 percent of the population is Hispanic, Talarico criticized Paxton over past political controversies, calling for unity among Texans regardless of party affiliation.
| Candidate | Party | Current Office / Background |
|---|---|---|
| James Talarico | Democratic | State Representative, former middle school teacher |
| Ken Paxton | Republican | State Attorney General |
Paxton, 63, is leaning heavily on external support. The Texas Republican Party held its state convention in Dallas in September, followed by three separate campaign visits from Donald Trump. Elon Musk has also channeled nearly $200 million through related political groups to support conservative efforts.
During an October 23 rally near San Antonio, Paxton warned a crowd of older supporters that the race would decide the balance of power in the Senate for years, characterizing his opponent as an extremist. While reliable conservative voters like 66-year-old Nathan Kane voiced strong support for Trump and opposition to Democratic policies, Paxton’s primary victory over traditional conservative John Cornyn has left some moderate conservatives alienated.
Neil Bush, brother of former President George W. Bush, has endorsed Talarico. At a recent campaign event, 63-year-old former government worker Jack Nunes voiced frustration, noting that a nominee like Cornyn would have secured an easy victory.
