World
Who Is James Talarico? The Democrat Who Could Turn Texas Blue After 30 Years Of GOP Dominance
By: News18 World
Published: 24 October 2026
Photo / Illustration: Haldwani Times News Desk
<p>James Talarico, a 37-year-old former teacher, is hoping to turn Texas blue for the first time in more than three decades, with a campaign built around Christian faith, economic fairness and a promise to challenge the political establishment.</p>
<p>The Democratic candidate is taking on Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a staunch ally of President Donald Trump, in one of the most closely watched Senate contests ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections.</p>
<p>Polls suggest a tight race, raising the possibility that Talarico could become the first Democrat to win a statewide election in Texas since 1994.</p>
<p>“This is the moment we leave it all on the field. We are the underdogs. It’s David versus Goliath," Talarico told a rally in Galveston.</p>
<p>James Talarico is a 37-year-old former teacher, Presbyterian seminarian, and Democratic state representative running in the high-profile Texas Senate election.</p>
<p>The Democratic candidate is facing Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a staunch ally of President Donald Trump, in the upcoming November midterm elections.</p>
<p>Polls show a tight race within the margin of error, with Talarico holding a narrow four-point lead over Paxton ahead of the November election.</p>
