Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico has invited his Republican opponent, State Attorney General Ken Paxton, to a debate on Fox News, moderated by Bret Baier. During the Texas Tribune Festival in Austin, Talarico criticized Paxton for avoiding debates, claiming Paxton’s team rejected three TV station invitations.
Democrats seek to gain a Senate seat in Texas, a traditionally Republican state, as part of their strategy to shift power in November elections. Winning would be significant for the party. At the festival, Talarico stated, “Let’s do Bret Baier on Fox News. I’ll go into the lion’s den.” In response, Paxton’s campaign adviser, Nick Maddux, mentioned they plan to debate Talarico, though no date is set.
Newsweek analyzed potential debate issues. They reached out to both campaigns for comments.
Key Issues in the Debate
Inflation/Economy: Advantage Talarico
A Texas Politics Project survey discovered inflation is the top concern for voters. In a YouGov poll, 41% believed Democrats handle the economy better than Republicans. Talarico could capitalize on this in Texas.
Ethics and Trust: Advantage Talarico
Political corruption ranks second among voter concerns. Paxton faces scrutiny over past scandals, including an impeachment trial by the Texas House for public trust abuses. Though cleared, the controversy persists. Prominent Republicans, including John Cornyn, distance themselves from Paxton.
Immigration: Advantage Paxton
A Univision/YouGov survey showed 49% of Texans approve of Trump’s immigration handling. Under Trump, illegal border crossings decreased substantially. Paxton may leverage this success.
Health Care: Advantage Talarico
A Texas Public Opinion Research poll indicated strong support for Medicaid expansion across party lines. Talarico focuses on health care, promising to protect programs like Medicare and Social Security.
Christianity: Advantage Paxton
If debated, religion may surface, with 67% of Texans identifying as Christian. Talarico’s past comments about Christianity could be scrutinized, offering Paxton an opportunity to appeal to religious voters.
Polls and Campaign Trends
Talarico leads Paxton in various polls, with tight margins. An Emerson College poll gives Talarico a 1-point lead. An AARP survey shows a 4-point advantage, reflecting similar trends from other pollsters.
Recent Developments
Paxton has engaged in social media exchanges involving personal attacks against Talarico. In speeches, Paxton criticizes costs and government inaction, while Talarico challenges federal abuses following incidents involving ICE.
Campaign Financing
Talarico has raised $31.6 million, surpassing Paxton’s $9.3 million, according to Federal Election Commission data. Paxton’s funds include significant contributions from MAGA Inc. and political communications spending.
Significance of the 2026 Race
The outcome of the Texas Senate race could impact Senate control. Democrats aim to flip seats, influencing legislation during Trump’s term. A Talarico win would be historic, as Texas has not elected a Democratic senator since 1988. Election forecasts favor Democrats for Senate control.
For further information on this developing story, contact Newsweek editors Matthew Cannon and Shakeema Edwards.
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