Democrats Lead in Record-Spending Texas Senate Race

Democratic candidate James Talarico currently leads Republican Ken Paxton in polls for a U.S. Senate seat in Texas, a state where Democrats have not won a statewide election since 1988. The contest has become the most expensive in U.S. history, with spending exceeding $500 million. Talarico, a former teacher and state legislator, is campaigning on an anti-corruption platform, while Paxton carries the endorsement of President Donald Trump.

As the 2026 midterm elections approach, both parties are conducting aggressive get-out-the-vote efforts. In Bexar County, Democratic Party Chairwoman Michelle Lowe Solis is targeting a 60% statewide Democratic turnout to secure victory. Early turnout in Texas has already surpassed 2018 levels. Meanwhile, Republicans are expressing anxiety over a potential blue wave, citing dissatisfaction among Hispanic voters regarding immigration policies and rural opposition to AI data center construction.

To address these liabilities, Governor Greg Abbott announced a one-year moratorium on AI construction in the state. Despite these measures, U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has warned that Democrats may be out-turning Republicans. In Alabama, local party organizations in Mobile County are similarly utilizing phone calls and canvassing to drive participation ahead of Tuesday's vote.