Texas Politicians Spar Over Shooting Response

Republicans call for immigration reform, Democrats demand stricter gun laws after deadly Austin attack.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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In the wake of a deadly shooting in downtown Austin, Texas politicians from both parties have responded with calls for policy changes, with Republicans criticizing the country's immigration system and Democrats pushing for stricter gun laws. The shooting, which left two dead and 14 injured, has become a flashpoint in the state's ongoing political battles.

Why it matters

The political fallout from the Austin shooting highlights the deep divisions in Texas over issues like immigration and gun control, which have become key battlegrounds in the state's upcoming primary elections. The response from elected officials and candidates underscores how even tragic events can become fodder for partisan point-scoring.

The details

The gunman, identified as a 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen from Senegal, opened fire at a popular bar in downtown Austin early Sunday morning. Republicans, including Gov. Greg Abbott and GOP attorney general candidate Aaron Reitz, quickly criticized the country's immigration system and called for deporting "as many as possible" of those in the country legally. Democrats like U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett blamed the shooting on lax gun laws and the influence of the NRA. Both sides accused the other of prioritizing politics over public safety.

  • The shooting occurred around 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 2, 2026.
  • The Texas primary election is scheduled for the day after the shooting, on March 3, 2026.

The players

Greg Abbott

The Republican governor of Texas.

James Talarico

A Democratic state representative running for U.S. Senate.

Aaron Reitz

A Republican candidate for Texas attorney general.

Ndiaga Diagne

The 53-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen from Senegal who was identified as the gunman in the Austin shooting.

Michael Bullock

The president of the Austin Police Association.

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What they’re saying

“Allowing unvetted immigrants who are hostile to America, who are loyal to our adversaries like Iran, must end. This was an act of terror, James.”

— Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas (X)

“Dangerous people should not be allowed into the country. Dangerous people should not be allowed to get guns. Texans understand this — you apparently don't.”

— James Talarico, State Representative, Democratic U.S. Senate Candidate (X)

“Now is not the time. All of the information has not come out. How can policy be made on incomplete information? The action that needed to happen did – officers heroically ended the violence.”

— Michael Bullock, President, Austin Police Association (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Ndiaga Diagne out on bail.

The takeaway

The political responses to the Austin shooting highlight the deep partisan divides in Texas over issues like immigration and gun control, which are likely to be key factors in the upcoming primary elections. Both sides are using the tragedy to push their policy agendas, raising concerns that the needs of the victims and community may be overshadowed by political point-scoring.