Attorney General Paxton campaigns virtually as Texas Senate race tightens

Summary

Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Democrat State Rep. James Talarico are the final candidates for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas, with voting set for Nov. 3, 2026. Both made their last campaign appearances on Oct. 31, 2026, as President Trump held virtual rallies for Paxton and Elon Musk contributed over $150 million to pro‑Paxton groups. Public polls in September and October showed Talarico ahead by 2‑6 points, while internal Talarico data suggest a tighter race.

Why it matters

The race is seen as a barometer of voter sentiment toward President Trump’s influence on the GOP, while Democrats view it as a test of their ability to win in traditionally red states. A Paxton win could bolster Republican control of the Senate and reinforce Trump‑aligned policies; a Talarico victory could signal shifting dynamics and affect national legislative priorities.

Sources (4)

• Democrats are used to heartbreak in Texas - could Talarico turn the tide? BBC
• Report: Talarico’s Own Polls Show Texas Senate Race Tighter than Democrats Admit Breitbart
• Paxton and Talarico tussle for Texas Senate seat. Trump to campaign virtually instead of in person Breitbart
• EXCLUSIVE: Ken Paxton Warns ‘If We Lose Texas, We Lose America’ as Senate Race Enters Final Days Breitbart