Story perspectives

Talarico Leads Crockett in Tight Texas Senate Primary Race

1/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Texas state Rep. James Talarico leads U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett by 9 points in the Democratic Senate primary, with 47% support compared to Crockett's 38%, according to an Emerson College poll.
Talarico's support is strong among Hispanic and white voters, while Crockett leads among Black voters.
On the Republican side, Attorney General Ken Paxton has 27% support, narrowly ahead of incumbent Sen. John Cornyn at 26%, indicating a likely runoff.
In hypothetical matchups, Talarico and Crockett tie with Paxton at 46%, but both trail Cornyn.
The primaries are scheduled for March 3, with potential runoffs on May 26.

History

Historical Context

The 2020 Texas Democratic primary, held on March 3, marked a pivotal moment in the state's political landscape, with Rep. Veronica Escobar winning 57% of the Hispanic vote. This shift reflects a broader trend, as seen in the 2018 Senate race where Beto O'Rourke captured 48% of Hispanic voters, indicating the increasing influence of this demographic in Texas politics.

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Story summary

Texas state Rep. James Talarico leads U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett by 9 points in the Democratic Senate primary, with 47% support compared to Crockett's 38%, according to an Emerson College poll.
Talarico's support is strong among Hispanic and white voters, while Crockett leads among Black voters.
On the Republican side, Attorney General Ken Paxton has 27% support, narrowly ahead of incumbent Sen. John Cornyn at 26%, indicating a likely runoff.
In hypothetical matchups, Talarico and Crockett tie with Paxton at 46%, but both trail Cornyn.
The primaries are scheduled for March 3, with potential runoffs on May 26.

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