Texas Primaries: Key Contests and Standout Storylines Ahead of Election Day
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Election day in Texas is seeing voters decide between candidates representing their parties on the November ballot. There are two major primaries for the U.S. Senate featuring Democratic U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett and Republican Sen. John Cornyn, among others. Other critical primaries include the Attorney General’s office, opened up for the first time in over a decade due to Ken Paxton’s decision to run for Senate, and the nominations for the state’s 38 seats in the U.S. House.
Texas Primaries: Spotlight on U.S. Senate and Critical Statewide Office Races
It’s Election Day in Texas as voters across the state decide the representatives for their parties on the November ballot. The spotlight is on U.S. Senate primaries and statewide office races, with candidates vying for votes in highly competitive races. Five key storylines are worth watching as the day unfolds.
The Republican Standoff for U.S. Senate
The high-stakes Republican primary for U.S. Senate sees Sen. John Cornyn battling Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt. Despite the heavy spending and intense debate, none of the candidates seem likely to garner 50% of the vote, indicating a probable May runoff.
Democratic Nominee for U.S. Senate
The Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate is a closely watched contest between U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett and state Rep. James Talarico. Both candidates have national profiles and widespread support within the party, but their approaches to winning statewide differ significantly. This race has driven a high turnout during the early voting period, with over 1.5 million votes already cast.
The Race to Replace Ken Paxton
The departure of Ken Paxton from the attorney general’s office has led to a fiercely competitive GOP primary. U.S. Rep. Chip Roy and state Sen. Mayes Middleton are leading the race, each promising to amplify the agency’s conservative advocacy. The primary is likely headed for a runoff and the eventual winner will face one of three Democrats in November.
Abbott vs. Trump Endorsement Scoreboard
Gov. Greg Abbott’s influence is felt throughout the ballot, with his endorsements pitted against candidates backed by President Donald Trump. Among his endorsees are Nate Sheets, challenging Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, and former state Sen. Kelly Hancock, running for state comptroller. The outcomes of these races will have significant implications for the state’s leadership and Abbott’s political capital.
Tort Reform Battles in Texas House Primaries
The battle among the Texas House majority has now centered on tort reform, a move to limit the ability of injury victims to file civil suits. The outcomes of Tuesday’s GOP House primaries will determine the future of the civil litigation system and the influence of Texans for Lawsuit Reform, a long-standing campaign power in Texas Republican politics.
For more on these races and other important Texas election news, visit Texas Tribune.
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