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Texas Senate Primary Shatters Ad Spending Record at $110M

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Texas has recorded the highest campaign ad spending for a Senate primary in U.S. history, surpassing $110 million.
Republican candidates account for the majority of this spending, with Sen. John Cornyn leading at $64 million.
Democratic candidates James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett have raised $21 million and $8.6 million, respectively, with Talarico currently leading Crockett by 12 points in polls.
Increased Democratic turnout in early voting suggests a competitive primary ahead of the March 3 election.
Republicans express concern about retaining the seat if Attorney General Ken Paxton becomes the nominee.

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Story summary

Texas has recorded the highest campaign ad spending for a Senate primary in U.S. history, surpassing $110 million.
Republican candidates account for the majority of this spending, with Sen. John Cornyn leading at $64 million.
Democratic candidates James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett have raised $21 million and $8.6 million, respectively, with Talarico currently leading Crockett by 12 points in polls.
Increased Democratic turnout in early voting suggests a competitive primary ahead of the March 3 election.
Republicans express concern about retaining the seat if Attorney General Ken Paxton becomes the nominee.