Democrat James Talarico won the Texas US Senate race, defeating President Donald Trump-backed Republican Ken Paxton, according to AP data.
The win was monumental for Democrats who had not won a Senate election in Texas in 38 years. Talarico’s win also moves Democrats closer to clinching control of the Senate.
Trump carried Texas by 14% in 2024. He endorsed Paxton, the Texas attorney general, despite the fact that he was at the center of many controversies, including a 2023 impeachment and a securities fraud case.
Talarico, a four-term state legislator, overcame a flood of heavy outside spending, in what became the most expensive Senate race of the cycle. Billionaire and Trump ally Elon Musk poured over $200 million in support of Paxton’s campaign.
Supporters of the Talarico campaign in Austin, Texas were jubilant, DW correspondent Mischa Komadovsky reported.
The night was a political earthquake in Texas, as Democrat Gina Hinojosa captured the governorship, unseating incumbent Governor Greg Abbott.
The 52-year-old attorney and state lawmaker, courted independents and voters disillusioned by Trump’s unpopular war in Iran and skyrocketing prices.
The two victories could signal that Texas, the country’s second most populous state could become competitive in national elections.
Texas has long been a safe Republican state in presidential elections, with 40 electoral votes. A shift to Democrats could reshape the electoral map for president in the future.
Source: www.dw.com
