Texas Senate Race Sets Spending Records Ahead of Primary

Candidates and outside groups pour over $110 million into the hotly contested race

Feb. 26, 2026 at 12:18am

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The race for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas is setting spending records, with candidates and political groups pouring over $110 million into advertising and reserved advertising time ahead of the state's primary election on Tuesday. The heavy spending is being driven by strong fundraising from Democratic candidate James Talarico and efforts by allies of Republican incumbent Sen. John Cornyn to save his long political career.

Why it matters

The record-breaking spending in the Texas Senate race is a preview of the massive amounts of money expected to flood this year's midterm elections across the U.S., with control of Congress at stake. The race also highlights the growing influence of outside groups in shaping election outcomes, as the majority of the $110 million spent so far has come from groups not tied to the candidates.

The details

Talarico, the Democratic frontrunner, has reported raising over $21 million, while his primary opponent Jasmine Crockett has raised nearly $8.6 million. On the Republican side, incumbent Sen. John Cornyn is facing challenges from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt. Outside groups have spent over $75 million, with the majority going to support Cornyn's bid for a fifth term.

  • The primary election in Texas is scheduled for Tuesday, February 28, 2026.
  • Talarico launched his final TV ad before the primary on Wednesday, February 27, 2026.

The players

James Talarico

The Democratic frontrunner in the Texas Senate race, who has reported raising over $21 million.

Jasmine Crockett

Talarico's Democratic primary opponent, who has raised nearly $8.6 million.

John Cornyn

The incumbent Republican U.S. Senator from Texas, who is facing challenges from Paxton and Hunt.

Ken Paxton

The Texas Attorney General, who is challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary.

Wesley Hunt

A U.S. Representative who is also challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary.

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What they’re saying

“We can transform this broken political system.”

— James Talarico

“It is a strong possibility we cannot hold Texas if John Cornyn is not our nominee.”

— Tim Scott, GOP Senator from South Carolina

“People said, 'There's no way she's going to win.' I show up, authentically me. That makes some people cringe, but the people are tired of politics as usual.”

— Jasmine Crockett, U.S. Representative

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.