Texans vote in most expensive Senate race in US history

Texas voters are choosing between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico in a Senate contest that has drawn at least $573.2 million, making it the most expensive Senate race in US history. The spending has sharpened concerns among voters that wealthy donors and political groups have too much influence, amid a campaign focused on the high cost of living.

Talarico’s campaign raised $155 million, compared with $40 million for Paxton, while outside groups also spent heavily. Billionaire Elon Musk contributed at least $212 million to efforts supporting Paxton, including $168 million to the Senate Leadership Fund; estimates may exclude some “dark money” spending. A Talarico victory would be the first Democratic win in a Texas statewide race since 1994.