The race for Texas’ U.S. Senate seat is entering a new phase as the two leading candidates build their campaign war chests and sharpen their messages ahead of the November election. Campaign finance figures show Democratic state Rep. James Talarico raised $30 million during the April, May, and June reporting period, while Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton raised $9 million.

Fundraising Totals

According to the campaigns, both reported their strongest fundraising totals of the race so far. At the same time, Paxton is facing scrutiny following a report examining where he voted in six elections over the past two years. Critics have alleged the situation amounts to voter fraud.

Paxton’s campaign rejected those claims, calling the report “baseless” and saying Paxton “is a lawful, registered Texas voter in full compliance with the law.” Talarico referenced that issue while also criticizing a plea agreement reached by the Texas Attorney General’s Office in a child sexual abuse case.

“Texans deserve answers. Texans deserve transparency. And it’s why we’re going to keep fighting to get those questions answered after a pedophile was let back on the street after just 29 days in jail,” Talarico said. Talarico is also working to unify Democrats after a competitive primary.

Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.