Taylor Rehmet, Fort Worth Democrat, Leads in SD 9 Race

The union leader and aircraft mechanic has received national attention since advancing from the first round of voting.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 8:15pm

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Democrat Taylor Rehmet is leading in the race for state Senate District 9, a solidly red seat that covers northern and western Tarrant County. Rehmet, a 33-year-old union leader and aircraft mechanic, has received national attention since advancing from the first round of voting in November as the leading candidate.

Why it matters

Rehmet's campaign has focused on advocating for the working class, addressing issues like rising property taxes, rent, housing costs, insurance rates and grocery bills. His bid to flip the traditionally Republican district has garnered support from Texas Democrats and union groups.

The details

Rehmet, a Garland native, joined the U.S. Air Force at 19 and later worked as an aircraft technician at Lockheed Martin. He has been active in the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Union, now serving as president of the state and a local chapter. Rehmet is running on a platform of making Texas more affordable and fair for working families.

  • Rehmet won 48% of votes in the first round of voting in November, but without getting more than half, the race went into a runoff against Republican Leigh Wambsganss.
  • Rehmet and Wambsganss will face off again in the November general election as they vie for a full four-year term.

The players

Taylor Rehmet

A 33-year-old union leader and aircraft mechanic who is the Democratic candidate in the race for Texas Senate District 9.

Leigh Wambsganss

The Republican candidate in the race for Texas Senate District 9, a conservative activist with ties to the influential Patriot Mobile.

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What they’re saying

“I'm running for Texas Senate District 9 because a state as strong as Texas should work for the people who make it strong. Today, too many working families are priced out, ignored, and dismissed while the Legislature bends to wealthy interests and partisan extremes. I believe Texas can be affordable, fair, and rooted in common sense but not without leaders willing to fight for it.”

— Taylor Rehmet

“I am going across this state, and I am telling people what you all are doing in Taylor Rehmet's Senate seat.”

— Gina Hinojosa, Democratic Candidate for Governor

What’s next

Rehmet and Wambsganss will face off again in the November general election as they vie for a full four-year term.

The takeaway

Rehmet's campaign to flip the traditionally Republican Senate District 9 has gained national attention, with the union leader and aircraft mechanic positioning himself as an advocate for the working class and garnering support from Texas Democrats and union groups.