Texas Rep. James Talarico Plans Democratic Senate Primary Bid

Texas State Representative James Talarico is preparing to launch a Democratic primary campaign for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican John Cornyn, who is engaged in a contentious primary against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Talarico joins a crowded Democratic field that includes former Congressman Colin Allred and potentially Beto O’Rourke, both of whom have previously pursued this Senate seat. Known for his viral opposition to Republican efforts to mandate the Ten Commandments in schools and his participation in a high-profile boycott against GOP-led redistricting efforts, Talarico has gained national attention, including an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast where he was encouraged to run for president. Despite Texas's historical Republican dominance and President Trump’s strong performance in the state, Democrats see the primary contest between Cornyn and the embattled Paxton, who faces personal controversies, as a potential opening. Talarico, a 36-year-old pastor representing northern Austin suburbs, frames politics as a struggle between the powerful and the powerless and emphasizes unity across divides as a strategic approach. His entry into the race highlights a broader Democratic strategy to compete aggressively in Texas in the 2026 midterm elections.