Full Breakdown
James Talarico’s Chicago Fundraiser and Gov. JB Pritzker’s Texas Outreach Signal Democratic Push in Deep-Red Texas
6/25/2026, 5:05:10 AM
Chicago Fundraiser Launches Ahead of Texas Senate Race
On Wednesday, June 23, 2026, Texas Rep. James Talarico held a fundraiser in Chicago, with Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker attending as a guest. Hosted by Bill Daley, the event aimed to bolster Talarico’s bid to become the first Democrat to win a statewide Texas office since 1994 and to support his upcoming appearance at the Texas Democratic Convention.
Background: Walkout and Redistricting Dispute
In August 2025, Talarico joined 39 Texas Democrats in a walkout to the Illinois Capitol, denying Republicans a quorum needed to approve a congressional map that added five new Republican districts. Texas Democrats called the action an “extraordinary and necessary step.” The U.S. Supreme Court later reversed a lower-court ruling that had struck down the map over alleged racial gerrymandering.
Key Players
The race pits Talarico, a 37-year-old Democratic star, against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who secured Trump’s endorsement and won a runoff against Sen. John Cornyn. Gov. JB Pritzker contributed $3,500 to Talarico’s campaign and will deliver a keynote speech at the Texas Democratic Convention. Bill Daley serves as a fundraiser host.
Financial Snapshot
The Federal Election Commission reports Talarico raised $40.2 million in the primary and entered March with $9.8 million cash on hand. Fundraiser contribution tiers ranged from $500 to $13,500 for top-tier donors, underscoring its place among the nation’s most expensive Senate contests.
Official Statements & Responses
Gov. Pritzker announced his keynote address will focus on voter outreach in Texas. The Talarico campaign framed its fundraising success as evidence of expanding Democratic momentum in the state. Texas Republican officials reiterated confidence in Paxton’s candidacy, citing his incumbency as Attorney General.
Criticism & Opposition
Paxton’s campaign labeled Talarico “the most extreme radical the Democrats have ever nominated” and dismissed his platform as a “vegan campaign.” Democrats countered by highlighting Paxton’s past, including dismissed securities-fraud charges and a 2023 impeachment vote that acquitted him of alleged abuse of power. Democrats also target Hispanic voters who supported former President Trump in 2024.
Verbatim Quotes
- “the most extreme radical the Democrats have ever nominated” — Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General
- “vegan campaign,” — Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General
- “extraordinary and necessary step,” — Texas Democratic lawmakers (regarding the August walkout)
- “The top tier is $13,500.” — Fundraiser invitation detailing donor levels
Why It Matters
The contest offers Democrats their strongest chance to flip a Texas Senate seat, a win that could shift the partisan balance of the U.S. Senate. Fundraising in a deep-red state signals a strategic push to expand donor networks and mobilize Hispanic voters, while the race’s projected cost highlights its national significance.
What’s Next
Gov. Pritzker will address the Texas Democratic Convention on Friday, after which Talarico plans intensified statewide outreach ahead of the November election. Both campaigns are expected to increase spending.
