Texas Senate Race Heats Up Amid Controversial Donations

AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Democratic primary for U.S. Senate intensified on Friday when former U.S. Rep. Colin Allred publicly criticized his rival, state Rep. James Talarico, for accepting donations from casino magnate Miriam Adelson. Allred’s remarks came during the Texas Tribune Festival, marking a significant escalation in their campaign rivalry.

Allred called out Talarico for taking $59,000 from the Texas Sands PAC, a pro-gambling group funded by Adelson, while Talarico presented himself as an opponent of billionaires’ influence in politics. “I like James, but when I see him say that he’s running against billionaires, but then when nobody was looking, his top donor was Miriam Adelson… That contributes to the cynicism that folks might experience,” Allred said.

Talarico defended his acceptance of funding from Adelson and billionaire Charles Butt, arguing that he supports the educational causes related to these contributions, including legalizing gambling and fully funding public schools. He insists he is trying to navigate a difficult political landscape, stating, “I am in this broken system like everybody else is.”

Both candidates aim to highlight the influence of wealthy donors in politics. Talarico criticized the small band of Democrats in the U.S. Senate who compromised on a funding measure during a government shutdown, saying, “We need national Democrats to fight with everything they have for working people.”

In addition to disagreements, Allred and Talarico found common ground on major issues, including restoring the speaking filibuster and legalizing marijuana. They also both denounced the actions of several Senate Democrats who voted against their party’s core demands.

The race represents a dilemma for Texas Democrats, facing a crowded field and the challenge of appealing to a wide range of voters. On Friday, Talarico emphasized his commitment to representing Texas by stating, “I plan to run a Texas campaign to serve Texas.”

As the campaign unfolds, the two candidates are striving to position themselves as the most viable choice for defeating a Republican opponent in the general election. Allred noted his past electoral experience as an asset, having previously run a statewide campaign against a Republican, while Talarico remains focused on his legislative achievements.

This dynamic race is heating up, and the coming weeks will determine how these candidates navigate their criticisms and alliances as they vie for the Democratic nomination.