Texas Primaries: Democrats Nominate Talarico; GOP Heads to Runoff

James Talarico won the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Texas on Tuesday, capping a remarkable rise from state lawmaker to the party’s standard-bearer in one of the key races of the 2026 midterm cycle.

The victory sets up a November election that Democrats believe could be within reach, as they aim to end their 32-year losing streak in statewide elections. Talarico will face either incumbent Sen. John Cornyn or state Attorney General Ken Paxton, who are heading to a runoff after neither secured enough votes to win outright.

Talarico's blend of faith-based populism and bipartisan appeal has been seen as more electable than his primary opponent, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett, in a state where Democrats have gone decades without winning a statewide race. Talarico's campaign focused on bridging divides and appealing to moderates and independents.

On the Republican side, Cornyn is seeking a fifth term but faces a tough challenge from Paxton, who has been dogged by legal and personal controversies. The presence of a third candidate, Wesley Hunt, meant neither Cornyn nor Paxton were able to surpass the 50% vote threshold needed to secure the nomination outright.

Crockett conceded early on Wednesday morning, with a message focused on uniting the party. 'Texas is primed to turn blue and we must remain united because this is bigger than any one person,' she said. Talarico's victory has been hailed as a significant moment for Democrats hoping to make gains in the state.

The primary also saw high voter turnout and enthusiasm among Texas Democrats, with young people and first-time voters showing up in unusually high numbers. However, confusion over ballot-counting in key counties clouded Democrats' election night excitement.