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Democrat Taylor Rehmet Upsets in Trump-Won Texas District

2/5/2026

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Summary

Rehmet Triumphs in Texas

Taylor Rehmet (D) defeated Republican Leigh Wambsganss by 14 points in Texas State Senate District 9, a district that U.S. President Donald Trump won by 17 points in 2024.
GOP leaders Tim Scott and John Thune call for a stronger campaign as polls show Democrats leading.
Trump’s declining approval and immigration backlash prompt Republicans to address concerns and preserve their congressional majority.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 midterm elections marked a pivotal moment in U.S. politics, as Democrats gained 41 seats in the House of Representatives, their largest increase since 1974. With a voter turnout of 50.3%, the highest for a midterm since 1914, this shift reflected widespread discontent with Republican policies under President Trump, particularly regarding healthcare and immigration, challenging the GOP's long-held majority since 2011.

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Rehmet Triumphs in Texas

Taylor Rehmet (D) defeated Republican Leigh Wambsganss by 14 points in Texas State Senate District 9, a district that U.S. President Donald Trump won by 17 points in 2024.
GOP leaders Tim Scott and John Thune call for a stronger campaign as polls show Democrats leading.
Trump’s declining approval and immigration backlash prompt Republicans to address concerns and preserve their congressional majority.

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