Talarico seeks to end Democrats’ decades-long drought in Texas statewide races
James Talarico, a 37-year-old Democrat and former teacher, is trying to win a Texas Senate seat in a race that could affect control of Congress. Democrats have not won a Texas statewide election in more than three decades, so a victory would mark a major political shift and prompt questions about Republican strength in the state.
Polls suggest Talarico may be competitive, though the article does not give figures, and Republicans are campaigning hard: Donald Trump appeared in Lubbock with Republican candidate Ken Paxton. Talarico drew an estimated 3,000 supporters at a rally, with another 1,000 listening outside; spending in the race has topped half a billion dollars, making it the most expensive US Senate race in history.
In short
- Talarico is seeking a historic Democratic Senate win in Texas.
- The result could influence which party controls Congress.
- Spending in the race has exceeded half a billion dollars.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Talarico’s candidacy offers Texans a chance to change the state’s long-running political direction and could bring a different voice to the Senate. His apparent competitiveness and large rally suggest voters may be open to that change, while a Democratic victory could make the state’s political balance more responsive to a wider range of views.
The case against
Republicans can argue that continued support for their candidate reflects Texans’ preference for the state’s established political direction, and that a high-profile contest should not itself be mistaken for evidence of a lasting shift. Keeping the seat Republican would preserve the party’s influence in the Senate and allow voters who favour its approach to maintain representation in Congress.
Explained simply
Texas is one of the largest US states and has long been a Republican stronghold in statewide elections. A US senator represents the state in Congress, where the Senate shares responsibility for passing laws and confirming senior government appointments.
James Talarico is a Democrat and former teacher seeking a Senate seat; Ken Paxton is the Republican candidate. The race matters beyond Texas because its result could affect which party controls the Senate, and a Democratic win would break the party’s long run without a statewide victory there.
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Originally published by BBC World as “Democrats are used to heartbreak in Texas – could Talarico turn the tide?”.