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Crockett Today
By the People, for the People
Texas Gears Up for Heated Senate Primary Races
Key candidates and races to watch as the Lone Star State heads to the polls
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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The upcoming Senate primaries in Texas have drawn national attention, with several high-profile Republican and Democratic candidates vying for their party's nominations. On the GOP side, incumbent Sen. John Cornyn is facing challenges from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt. Meanwhile, the Democratic primary features a battle between state Rep. James Talarico and Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who entered the race after another progressive candidate, former Rep. Colin Allred, opted to run against Rep. Julie Johnson instead.
Why it matters
The Texas Senate primaries are seen as an important bellwether for the national political landscape, with the Republican and Democratic parties battling for control of the upper chamber. The outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power in Washington.
The details
The Texas Senate primaries will be held on March 3, with early voting starting on February 17. A runoff election is expected on May 26 if no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote plus one. The Republican primary features a three-way race between the incumbent Cornyn and challengers Paxton and Hunt, all of whom have strong support bases. On the Democratic side, Talarico and Crockett are vying to secure their party's nomination.
- The Texas Senate primaries will be held on March 3, 2026.
- Early voting in the primaries will begin on February 17, 2026.
- A runoff election, if necessary, will take place on May 26, 2026.
The players
Sen. John Cornyn
The incumbent Republican senator from Texas who is seeking re-election.
Ken Paxton
The current Texas Attorney General and a Republican challenger to Cornyn in the primary.
Rep. Wesley Hunt
A Republican congressman from Texas who is also challenging Cornyn in the primary.
Rep. James Talarico
A Democratic state representative in Texas who is running for the Senate.
Rep. Jasmine Crockett
A Democratic congresswoman from Texas who entered the Senate race in December 2025.
What’s next
The results of the Texas Senate primaries on March 3 will determine which candidates advance to the runoff election on May 26.
The takeaway
The Texas Senate primaries are shaping up to be a crucial battleground in the national political landscape, with high-profile candidates from both parties vying for their party's nomination. The outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power in the US Senate.
