James Talarico is campaigning to win a US Senate seat in Texas, where polls give the Democrat a narrow lead over Republican Ken Paxton. The race is closely watched because Democrats need victories in Republican strongholds such as Texas to gain a Senate majority and make it harder for President Donald Trump to govern.
Talarico, a former teacher and Christian, has made corruption among Texas Republicans a central theme of his campaign. He casts himself as a moderate and has described the contest as a struggle between powerful interests and ordinary people. A victory would be the first Democratic Senate win in Texas in more than three decades.
Paxton, a Trump loyalist, has faced political and personal controversies. In 2023, the Texas House voted to impeach him over allegations of abuse of power and corruption, but the state Senate acquitted him. His wife, a Texas senator, has also accused him of affairs and is divorcing him.
Despite those controversies, Paxton’s supporters voiced confidence in his candidacy. One criticized Talarico over his views on gender and religion, while another said they hoped Paxton would soon take office and do a good job.
On the eve of the midterm elections, Talarico told supporters he believed they could surprise the nation by defeating billionaires and winning Texas back.
Sources: Der Spiegel.