Talarico Bests Crockett in Texas Senate Primary, Republicans to Runoff

The first major contest of the 2026 primary season has concluded with a Republican runoff election on the horizon.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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In the race for the Texas Senate seat, Democrat José Talarico emerged victorious in the primary election, defeating his Republican opponent, former congressman Davy Crockett. However, since no candidate received more than 50% of the vote, the top two Republican finishers, Crockett and another contender, will now advance to a runoff election.

Why it matters

This race is seen as an early indicator of the political landscape in Texas ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, where control of the Senate could be at stake. The outcome also highlights the continued influence of more moderate and conservative factions within the state's Republican Party.

The details

Talarico, a 42-year-old state representative, ran on a platform of expanding access to healthcare and investing in renewable energy infrastructure. Crockett, a 68-year-old former congressman, campaigned on traditional Republican priorities like border security and tax cuts. In the primary, Talarico secured 48% of the Democratic vote, while Crockett led the Republican field with 42% support. However, since no Republican candidate reached the 50% threshold, the top two finishers, Crockett and another contender, will now advance to a runoff election to determine the party's nominee.

  • The primary election was held on March 3, 2026.

The players

José Talarico

A 42-year-old state representative who ran on a platform of expanding access to healthcare and investing in renewable energy infrastructure.

Davy Crockett

A 68-year-old former congressman who campaigned on traditional Republican priorities like border security and tax cuts.

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What’s next

The Republican runoff election is scheduled for April 14, 2026, with the winner advancing to the general election in November.

The takeaway

This race highlights the continued ideological divisions within the Texas Republican Party, as well as the potential for Democrats to make inroads in the state by appealing to more moderate voters.