Texas politics just shook the table a little. The 2026 midterms are officially underway, and one of the most talked-about races in the country went down right here in Texas. In the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, State Rep. James Talarico secured the nomination, defeating U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett in a race that was real close.
According to CNN and Decision Desk HQ, Talarico ultimately pulled off the win in the March 3 primary. It was tight. It was competitive. And it was closely watched nationwide. Now, Talarico advances to face either U.S. Sen. John Cornyn or Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who are headed to a May 26 Republican runoff.
RELATED: Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett Launches Campaign To Run For The US Senate In Texas
When this race first started heating up, a whole lot of folks were rooting for Jasmine. She came in with name recognition, confidence, and that signature sharp tongue folks have seen light up congressional hearings. For many Democrats, especially Black voters and progressives, Crockett felt like the fighter. The one who wasn’t about to sugarcoat anything. The one who would go toe-to-toe with Republicans and not blink. Her viral committee moments built her a loyal base that was excited to see her take that energy statewide. While this race has ended for her, we’re sure her fight is not over!
And when she jumped into the race in December, it shifted everything. Her entry was so impactful that former Rep. Colin Allred stepped aside from his Senate run and pivoted to a House race instead. That’s how much presence she carried.
Early buzz? It leaned her way.
Grassroots enthusiasm? Definitely there.
Fundraising? Strong.
There was a real feeling among many voters that she could be the bold new face Texas Democrats needed.
But politics will humble you quick.
Talarico, 36, a former middle school teacher, carved out his own lane. Leaning into his Christian faith and populist tone, he framed the campaign around the idea that America’s politics is more about “top vs. the bottom” than a traditional liberal against conservative worldview.
That message landed with moderates and working-class voters who may have liked Crockett’s fire but were looking for something that felt more unifying — or at least more electable statewide.
As for Crockett? This loss doesn’t erase the momentum she built. A lot of folks still believe in her voice, her fire, and her ability to energize voters who sometimes feel overlooked. If anything, this race proved she has a statewide base that showed up and showed out.
Texas Democrats made their choice this round.
But if you think this is the last time Jasmine Crockett’s name will be in a statewide headline, you haven’t been paying attention.