Story perspectives

Record Early Voting Energizes Texas Democratic Primary Races

2/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Democratic primary for the 2026 Texas midterms posted a record early-voting total of 1,259,356 ballots, surpassing 2024 and 2020.
The surge is driven by competitive races between state Rep. James Talarico and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett.
Democratic officials express optimism in Harris and Tarrant Counties.
Republican turnout is up but lags behind Democrats, a trend noted by Dave Carney.
Both parties acknowledge swing voters' importance for the general election.

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Story summary

The Democratic primary for the 2026 Texas midterms posted a record early-voting total of 1,259,356 ballots, surpassing 2024 and 2020.
The surge is driven by competitive races between state Rep. James Talarico and U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett.
Democratic officials express optimism in Harris and Tarrant Counties.
Republican turnout is up but lags behind Democrats, a trend noted by Dave Carney.
Both parties acknowledge swing voters' importance for the general election.