Our Best Stuff on the Texas Senate Race The Texas Senate race pits Trump-backed Attorney General Ken Paxton against Democratic state Representative James Talarico, highlighting contrasting endorsement strategies of both parties. Paxton faces impeachment allegations and a contentious divorce, while Talarico draws criticism for his progressive religious views. Republican strategists plan to campaign on Talarico’s liberal positions to energize their base, rather than debating issues like the economy that could favor the Democrat.

• The Texas Senate race features Trump-backed AG Ken Paxton against Democratic state Rep. James Talarico.
• Paxton carries impeachment allegations and personal scandal into the general election.
• Talarico is criticized by Republicans for his progressive religious views.
• Republican strategy focuses on portraying Talarico as a “crazy lefty” to mobilize their base.
• This strategy aims to counter concerns about Paxton’s baggage and Trump’s unpopularity with independent voters.
• The race is seen as a potential repeat of Beto O’Rourke’s close loss in 2018.
• National Republican groups that previously supported Cornyn over Paxton are now in a difficult position regarding support for Paxton.
• Saving Paxton’s Senate seat is expected to cost Republicans hundreds of millions of dollars.