Texas Democrats vie for Senate endorsements amid primary competition

Austin, Texas — Campaign endorsements are rolling in for two Democrats aiming to unseat Republican incumbent U.S. Senator John Cornyn. Fort Worth Congressman Marc Veasey has endorsed former U.S. Representative Colin Allred in his bid for the Senate seat.

Meanwhile, State Representative James Talarico of Austin announced that over 100 individuals have endorsed him, including Democratic Congresswoman Julie Johnson of Farmers Branch, who succeeded Allred in the House. ‘We’ve earned the support of public officials all over the state of Texas, from El Paso to Beaumont, from our biggest cities to our smallest towns. Elected officials and community leaders are uniting to take on this broken political system and finally create a Texas that works for regular working people,’ Talarico said.

However, two names on Talarico’s endorsement list reportedly said they did not endorse him, a mistake acknowledged by his campaign spokesman, who stated the names were added accidentally. Allred commented on his chances, saying, ‘I’m honored to have the support of folks who I think know that I’m the strongest candidate to run in and win a general election. I think this election is too important and there’s too much at stake.’

The endorsements come as speculation arises that U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett may enter the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate. Crockett indicated that her decision would depend on her polling performance, necessary to win both the primary and general election. Supporters have initiated text polls on her behalf, and she has fared well in a hypothetical poll. She acknowledges the challenge of expanding the electorate, especially as Democrats have not won a statewide race in Texas for over 30 years.

Talarico expressed that competition is beneficial in politics, stating, ‘It makes all of us stronger. So, I welcome more competition in this primary. I think it’s a good thing for this movement that’s trying to change the politics of our state and end one-party rule.’

Allred shares respect for Crockett, calling her a friend and a staunch advocate for her constituents. He emphasized that the real opponents are not fellow Democrats, but rather John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton. ‘It’s someone like John Cornyn, who’s been in Washington for two decades doing nothing for working Texans,’ he said. ‘Someone like Ken Paxton, who is basically historically corrupt, and who’s shown that he cannot represent us.’

The winners of the Republican and Democratic primaries will face off in November 2026.