Texans will head to the polls on Nov. 3 to select the state’s next U.S. senator. The race pits Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton against Democratic State Representative James Talarico. Both candidates have secured high‑profile endorsements and are raising unprecedented sums of money as the contest draws national attention.
Ken Paxton: A Proven Conservative Champion
Ken Paxton, the Republican nominee, has served as Texas Attorney General since 2015. In that role he has led a series of conservative legal challenges against the Obama and Biden administrations, defending Texas on immigration, health‑care, environmental regulation, and the protection of traditional values. Paxton’s record earned him the endorsement of President Donald Trump, Sen. Ted Cruz, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, the Texas Farm Bureau, the National Border Patrol Council, the National Federation of Independent Business, and 18 Texas U.S. representatives.
After a decisive victory over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in the March 2026 Republican primary runoff—winning by more than 25 points—Paxton entered the general election with strong momentum. His campaign emphasizes continued support for Texas families, strong border security, and the preservation of religious liberty.
James Talarico: A Faith‑Based Educator Turned Lawmaker
Democratic nominee James Talarico brings a background in public‑school teaching and Presbyterian seminary studies. Since 2018 he has represented parts of North Austin in the Texas House, focusing on education reform, parental‑rights issues, and community‑based solutions. Talarico’s endorsements include the Houston Chronicle editorial board, AFL‑CIO Texas, End Citizens United, the Congressional Black Caucus, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, whistleblower David Maxwell, and country music legend Willie Nelson.
During the campaign Talarico faced criticism after a brief illness forced him off the campaign trail in early October. Paxton’s team publicly requested a “proof of life” photo, a move that drew national headlines. Talarico responded by renewing his call for a debate, which has yet to be scheduled.
Fundraising and Early Voting
The contest has become one of the most expensive midterm battles in the country. Talarico raised over $64 million in the third quarter of 2026, a historic figure for a Texas Senate race. In response, tech billionaire Elon Musk contributed multi‑million‑dollar donations to a super PAC supporting Paxton, underscoring the high stakes for both parties.
Early voting in Texas runs from Monday, Oct. 19 through Friday, Oct. 30, giving voters ample time to cast their ballots before Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
What Texans Should Know
- Key issues: border security, religious liberty, education policy, and economic growth.
- Endorsements: Paxton enjoys backing from top Republican leaders and business groups; Talarico is supported by labor unions, civil‑rights caucuses, and prominent cultural figures.
- Fundraising: Both campaigns have attracted national attention and significant financial resources.
- Voting dates: Early voting Oct. 19‑30; Election Day Nov. 3.
As the race tightens, Texas voters will have the opportunity to shape the Senate’s balance of power and the direction of federal policy affecting families, faith, and individual liberty across the Lone Star State.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
