Crockett Ally Suggests Race Limits Her Campaign Tactics

Congresswoman's Senate bid faces fundraising, spending gap with opponent

Feb. 9, 2026 at 4:23pm

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A political ally of Democratic Texas Senate candidate Jasmine Crockett has suggested that her race limits her ability to rely on traditional campaigning methods like large TV ad buys. Crockett's campaign is falling behind in fundraising and spending compared to her primary opponent, Democratic State Rep. James Talarico, who has outspent her 19-to-1 on advertising so far.

Why it matters

Crockett's unconventional campaign approach highlights the challenges that candidates of color can face in running statewide races, where traditional political tactics may not be as accessible or effective. Her ally's comments raise questions about systemic barriers and the need for more inclusive campaign strategies.

The details

Jen Ramos, a political commentator and member of the Texas State Democratic Executive Committee, told NOTUS that Crockett is taking an 'unconventional' approach to campaigning because 'traditional' methods like large ad buys and hiring a campaign manager are 'not designed' for her as a candidate of color. Crockett's campaign has spent $260,000 on advertising so far, while her opponent Talarico has spent $6.6 million. Talarico has also released ads in Spanish and launched a Spanish-language campaign channel, while Crockett waited nearly two months to add an 'issues' section to her website, which initially had placeholder text.

  • Absentee voting is already underway in the closely-watched race.
  • In-person early voting is set to kick off on Feb. 17.

The players

Jasmine Crockett

Democratic Texas congressional representative running for the U.S. Senate.

James Talarico

Democratic Texas state representative and Crockett's primary opponent in the Senate race.

Jen Ramos

Political commentator and member of the Texas State Democratic Executive Committee, who is an ally of Crockett's campaign.

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What they’re saying

“Candidates of color cannot use these traditional methods because these traditional methods were not designed for them.”

— Jen Ramos, Political commentator and Texas State Democratic Executive Committee member

What’s next

Crockett is expected to start airing TV ads on Tuesday, while her opponent Talarico recently spent over $100,000 to air a 30-second Super Bowl ad.

The takeaway

Crockett's unconventional campaign approach highlights the systemic challenges that candidates of color can face in running statewide races, where traditional political tactics may not be as accessible or effective. Her campaign's struggles underscore the need for more inclusive and equitable campaign strategies.