James Tarico Joins Texas Senate Race
Texas Democratic state Senator James Tarico has announced his entry into the competitive Senate race as attention grows on the national stage. Tarico, who previously served as a state representative and a middle school teacher, is seen as a promising figure among Democrats. He will be the second prominent candidate from his party to contend for the seat currently occupied by long-time Republican Senator John Cornyn.
Democrats are optimistic that Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s involvement in the Cornyn Trails scandal may create an opportunity to flip the Senate seat, according to recent GOP primary polls.
“The largest divide in our country is still on the right. It’s a struggle between the wealthy and everyone else. The influence of billionaire donors and their allies has taken control of our state and government, leaving many behind,” Tarico stated in a release announcing his campaign. “I’m running for the US Senate to unite people and restore power to the hardworking Texans.”
Tarico emphasized that his campaign represents a challenge to the political establishment, saying, “We are standing up against the establishment, and though big money is powerful, it pales in comparison to the collective strength of the people.”
Another Democratic candidate, Colin Allred, kicked off his Senate campaign in July. Allred, a former college football player who later played in the NFL, faced a loss to conservative senator Ted Cruz in the previous 2024 election.
Former astronaut Terry Burch is also in the running for the Democratic nomination. Despite past challenges, Democrats have aimed to shift Texas toward their side, though they’ve struggled in various statewide elections.
Last year, Senator Cruz won re-election comfortably, and Trump had a sizable lead in Texas during the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. However, if Paxton, who holds significant support among GOP voters, unseats Cornyn in the upcoming March primary, Democrats may find a clearer path to victory in the 2026 general election.
Tarico, who often discusses how his faith informs his progressive agenda, has gained attention on social media, including viral TikTok videos and appearances on high-profile podcasts.
Earlier this summer, Tarico was active on cable news, rallying support from Texas Democrats amid varied challenges, including Trump-led campaigns in the state.
At 36, Tarico is set to launch his campaign with a rally in his hometown of Round Rock, Texas, just north of Austin.
