Sen. Heinrich endorses Talarico in Texas Senate primary

Endorsement marks first Senate backing in competitive Democratic race

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) has endorsed Democrat James Talarico in the Texas Senate primary, making him the first senator to publicly back a candidate in the competitive race against Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas). Heinrich praised Talarico's 'smart campaign' and 'accessible' pitch to voters, while an anonymous senator signaled Talarico is a favorite among Senate progressives.

Why it matters

The Texas Senate race is seen as a key battleground for Democrats as they seek to flip the seat long held by the GOP. Talarico and Crockett are locked in a competitive primary, with the winner potentially facing off against incumbent Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) in the general election.

The details

Talarico, a state lawmaker, is viewed as having a more measured approach compared to the polarizing Crockett, who is known for her viral House exchanges and outspoken anti-Trump stance. However, some question whether Talarico would be enough of a fighter in the Senate. Crockett has the backing of former Rep. Colin Allred (D-Texas), who previously ran for Senate.

  • The endorsement from Sen. Heinrich was made on February 11, 2026.

The players

Sen. Martin Heinrich

A Democratic senator from New Mexico who has endorsed James Talarico in the Texas Senate primary.

James Talarico

A Democratic candidate in the Texas Senate primary, who is seen as having a more measured approach compared to his opponent Jasmine Crockett.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett

A Democratic candidate in the Texas Senate primary, known for her viral House exchanges and outspoken anti-Trump stance.

Sen. John Cornyn

The incumbent Republican senator in Texas, who the Democratic nominee will potentially face in the general election.

Former Rep. Colin Allred

A former Democratic congressman from Texas who has backed Jasmine Crockett in the Senate primary.

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What they’re saying

“James Talarico is running a really smart campaign and making a very accessible pitch to voters in Texas.”

— Sen. Martin Heinrich (Semafor)

What’s next

The Democratic primary in Texas is scheduled for May 2026, with the winner potentially facing off against incumbent Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) in the general election.

The takeaway

The endorsement from Sen. Heinrich signals that Talarico is gaining traction among Senate progressives, as Democrats seek to flip the long-held Republican Senate seat in Texas. However, the primary race between Talarico and Crockett remains competitive, with the winner facing a tough general election battle against Cornyn.