Talarico Wins Texas Democratic Senate Primary

Rising star defeats Rep. Jasmine Crockett in closely watched race

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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James Talarico, a presbyterian seminarian and former public school teacher, has defeated Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the closely watched Democratic primary for Senate in Texas, according to Decision Desk HQ. Talarico's victory presents Democrats' best hope of winning in the red state, where the party hasn't won statewide in decades.

Why it matters

The Texas Senate race has already set the record as the most expensive Senate primary in U.S. history, and even more is expected to pour in as Republicans defend a seat long seen as safe. Talarico's win over the more established Crockett suggests he may be able to mount a stronger challenge to the Republican nominee in the general election.

The details

Controversy surrounding a CBS 'Late Show' segment appeared to give Talarico a surge of momentum in the weeks ahead of the primary. Crockett, a popular congresswoman known for her viral moments in the House, entered Tuesday's contest with higher name ID than her rival, and a handful of polls ahead of the race showed her in the lead. But Talarico pulled through with a majority of support on Tuesday, avoiding a runoff.

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

The players

James Talarico

A presbyterian seminarian and former public school teacher who won the Democratic primary for Senate in Texas.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett

A popular congresswoman who was defeated by Talarico in the Democratic primary for Senate in Texas.

Sen. John Cornyn

The incumbent Republican senator in Texas who is facing a competitive primary challenge.

Ken Paxton

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

Rep. Wesley Hunt

A Texas congressman who is also challenging Cornyn in the Republican primary.

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What they’re saying

“He's pretty slick and — with media and obviously drawing crowds — he's offering change. But that's not the sort of talk, as you know, that's going to attract mainstream Texans in November.”

— Sen. John Cornyn (The Hill)

What’s next

The winner of the Republican primary will face off against Talarico in the general election in November 2026.

The takeaway

Talarico's victory in the Democratic primary presents a new challenge for Republicans in Texas, where the party has long held a stronghold. His ability to generate momentum and appeal to voters could make the general election race more competitive than expected.