Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Texas Senate Primary Tightens: Talarico Gains Momentum Ahead

2/21/2026

39 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

As early voting begins in Texas, the Democratic United States Senate primary remains neck-and-neck between State Rep. James Talarico and State Rep. Jasmine Crockett.
Talarico has momentum after a CBS interview controversy, boosting fundraising to $2.5 million.
Polls show Talarico ahead among White and younger voters, while Crockett leads Black voters.
The outcomes of both parties' primaries could influence the November general election in Texas.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 Texas Senate race saw Beto O'Rourke raise a record $38 million against incumbent Ted Cruz, reflecting a surge in engagement among younger and diverse voters. This trend continued in the 2022 primaries, where candidates like Talarico and Crockett competed for key demographic support, underscoring the evolving political landscape in Texas and the potential for significant electoral shifts.

1 of 2

Story summary

As early voting begins in Texas, the Democratic United States Senate primary remains neck-and-neck between State Rep. James Talarico and State Rep. Jasmine Crockett.
Talarico has momentum after a CBS interview controversy, boosting fundraising to $2.5 million.
Polls show Talarico ahead among White and younger voters, while Crockett leads Black voters.
The outcomes of both parties' primaries could influence the November general election in Texas.

1 / 2