Cornyn and Talarico Kick Off Early Voting in Austin

U.S. Senate candidates campaign across the city as Texas voters begin casting ballots

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The first day of early voting in Texas brought U.S. Senate candidates John Cornyn and James Talarico to Austin, where they held campaign events to energize voters in one of the state's most closely watched races. Cornyn, the Republican incumbent, appeared at a rally alongside former Gov. Rick Perry, while Talarico, the Democratic challenger, addressed supporters at a separate event across town.

Why it matters

The U.S. Senate race in Texas is expected to be highly competitive, with Cornyn facing a primary challenge from within his own party as well as a Democratic opponent in Talarico who has drawn national attention. The early voting period is a critical time for candidates to connect with voters and build momentum ahead of the primary election.

The details

Cornyn, who is seeking reelection in the Republican primary, held a rally at Serrano's alongside former Gov. Rick Perry. He faces a competitive primary challenge from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt. Meanwhile, Talarico, the Democratic candidate, addressed supporters at the El Palacio Event Center. Talarico is a state representative who has gained national attention in recent weeks.

  • Early voting in Texas began on February 18, 2026.

The players

John Cornyn

U.S. Senator from Texas, seeking reelection in the Republican primary.

James Talarico

Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Texas, a state representative who has drawn national attention.

Rick Perry

Former Governor of Texas, appearing at Cornyn's campaign rally.

Ken Paxton

Texas Attorney General, challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary.

Wesley Hunt

U.S. Representative, challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary.

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What’s next

The primary election in Texas is scheduled for March 3, 2026, and the winners will advance to the general election in November.

The takeaway

The early voting period is a critical time for U.S. Senate candidates in Texas to connect with voters and build momentum ahead of the primary election, which is expected to be highly competitive on both the Republican and Democratic sides.