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Record Turnout in Texas Primary: Democrats Gain Momentum

3/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Democrats posted a record turnout in the Texas Senate primary, with over 2.3 million votes.
State Rep. James Talarico defeated U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the primary.
Republican turnout approached 2.2 million, producing a runoff between Sen. John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
Democrats see gains, especially in Latino-heavy counties where Democratic votes rose 128%.
Still, Texas has not elected a Democrat statewide since 1994, challenging general-election prospects.

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Story summary

Democrats posted a record turnout in the Texas Senate primary, with over 2.3 million votes.
State Rep. James Talarico defeated U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the primary.
Republican turnout approached 2.2 million, producing a runoff between Sen. John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
Democrats see gains, especially in Latino-heavy counties where Democratic votes rose 128%.
Still, Texas has not elected a Democrat statewide since 1994, challenging general-election prospects.