Texas Democrats Rally Behind James Talarico's Senate Bid Against Ken Paxton
Standing-room-only Houston crowd cheers as Democratic challenger launches campaign against scandal-plagued Republican Attorney General in what promises to be a bitter contest.
James Talarico launched his U.S. Senate campaign with a raucous rally in a packed Houston nightclub Wednesday night, energizing hundreds of Democrats who see his challenge to Attorney General Ken Paxton as their best chance to flip a Texas seat. The standing-room-only crowd erupted in cheers as Talarico took the stage less than 24 hours after Republicans settled their bitter primary runoff, selecting Paxton as their nominee by a lopsided margin over Senator John Cornyn.
The general election campaign began immediately with furious attacks from both sides, setting the tone for what promises to be a deeply personal and rancorous contest. Talarico wasted no time targeting Paxton's extensive legal troubles, highlighting his criminal indictment on securities fraud charges, which he later settled, and his impeachment by Republicans in the Texas House, though he was ultimately acquitted in a trial by Republicans in the Texas Senate.
Paxton fired back with his own barrage of attacks against Talarico, including the unusual accusation that his Democratic opponent is a vegan, though Talarico actually eats meat and cheese. The Republican also highlighted a 2021 comment Talarico made during a legislative hearing claiming there "are many more than two biological sexes — in fact, there are six," though Talarico has since said he was referring to biological "abnormalities."
The rapid-fire exchange of personal attacks demonstrated how both campaigns plan to make character and credibility central issues in the race. Democrats see Paxton's legal entanglements as a major vulnerability, while Republicans are betting that Talarico's past statements will alienate conservative Texas voters.
The Houston rally's energy reflected Democratic hopes that 2026 could finally be the year they break through in Texas, a state that has remained stubbornly red despite demographic changes. With Talarico's youth and progressive credentials energizing the base, Democrats believe they have found a candidate who can mobilize their voters while potentially appealing to moderate Republicans uncomfortable with Paxton's controversies.
