The Texas U.S. Senate race is shaping up to be a contentious battle as Attorney General Ken Paxton secures the Republican nomination to face Democrat James Talarico. The upcoming election promises to be a closely watched and costly affair, with Texas’s deeply conservative history adding an intriguing backdrop.
SCOTT DETROW, HOST:
Following the Republican runoff in Texas, Democrats are cautiously optimistic about their chances in the upcoming Senate race. Ken Paxton, backed by an endorsement from President Trump, decisively defeated incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Paxton’s victory sets the stage for a high-profile contest against Democrat James Talarico in the fall. Although Texas remains a Republican stronghold, Paxton’s controversial history could influence the race’s outcome. To discuss these developments, we’re joined by Blaise Gainey from The Texas Newsroom. Welcome, Blaise.
BLAISE GAINEY, BYLINE: Hello.
DETROW: Can you give us some insights into Ken Paxton’s background?
GAINEY: Certainly. Ken Paxton, a seasoned lawyer, has a lengthy political career in the Texas House and Senate before his tenure as attorney general, where he’s nearing the end of his third term. His tenure has been marked by controversies, including securities fraud charges and surviving an impeachment vote in 2023 related to his use of office for personal gain. His personal life has also been in the spotlight due to his divorce from state Senator Angela Paxton, amid allegations of infidelity. Paxton’s approach as attorney general has been notably partisan, often targeting Democrats and alleged undocumented immigrants.
DETROW: With Paxton’s significant win over John Cornyn, what does this imply for the general election?
GAINEY: The primary runoff results reflect the influence of more extreme voters, often yielding candidates with strong partisan leanings, like Paxton, especially with Trump’s endorsement. The broader question is whether the Republican base will support him in the general election. The runoff had about 1.4 million voters, but turnout is expected to be around 8 million in the general election, as seen in 2022.
DETROW: James Talarico has garnered attention since his Democratic primary win. What can you tell us about him?
GAINEY: At 37, Talarico is relatively new to politics compared to Paxton, but he’s established himself in Texas politics. He first made waves by ousting a Republican incumbent in a traditionally red district for the Texas House.
DETROW: The Democrats have historically struggled in statewide races in Texas, despite investing heavily. How are Talarico and Paxton positioning their campaigns?
GAINEY: Paxton has already begun targeting Talarico, ramping up after Trump’s endorsement. In his victory speech, Paxton took a jab at Talarico, calling him “the most extreme radical the Democrats have ever nominated” and humorously critiquing his “vegan campaign,” despite Talarico disproving this claim with a picture of him eating a turkey leg. This plays into Texas’s leading status in livestock production.
DETROW: And how is Talarico countering Paxton’s claims?
GAINEY: Talarico released an ad highlighting Paxton’s past controversies, such as his near-impeachment by his own party over misuse of public office for personal gain. Although Paxton wasn’t impeached, these issues are expected to be focal points in Talarico’s campaign.
DETROW: Can these candidates manage to sway voters?
GAINEY: It’s a challenging task. Paxton’s polarizing nature and Texas’s strong Republican inclination make it difficult for Talarico. His strategy will likely focus on appealing to Cornyn’s supporters who might consider voting Democrat in the general election.
DETROW: That was Blaise Gainey from The Texas Newsroom. Thank you for your insights.
GAINEY: You’re welcome. Thank you.
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