Deep in Trump country, a new generation reveals the divide behind Texas’ tight Senate race
Three Texas Tech roommates in Lubbock have sharply different political priorities as Texas’s unexpectedly close Senate race draws attention to voters’ views in a traditionally Republican state. Their accounts show how national and state politics connect to personal concerns, including careers, healthcare, immigration, education and the cost of living.
Isabella supports Republican Ken Paxton, saying energy policy and regulation matter to her oil and gas career; Kate and Candy support Democrat James Talarico, citing abortion rights, immigration, public education, healthcare and affordability. A Fox News poll in October found Paxton and Talarico tied at 49% among likely voters, despite Donald Trump winning Texas by nearly 14 points in 2024. Candy said weekly fuel costs have risen from about $30 to $35 to roughly $60 to $70.
In short
- Texas’s Senate race is unusually close.
- Three roommates’ votes reflect different priorities.
- Fuel costs are a concern for one student.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of Ken Paxton may prioritise energy policies and lighter regulation because oil and gas remain important to Texas’s economy and to young people building careers in the sector. They may also see Republican leadership as better aligned with their preferences on state governance and economic policy.
The case against
Supporters of James Talarico may argue that abortion rights, healthcare, public education and immigration policy have direct effects on people’s lives and opportunities. They may also favour his approach to affordability, pointing to rising household costs such as fuel as a reason to seek different policies.
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