Texas Senate Candidate James Talarico Challenges Ken Paxton to Debate

James Talarico, a Texas Democratic Senate candidate, has called out his Republican opponent, State Attorney General Ken Paxton, for a televised debate. The debate would take place on Fox News with Bret Baier as the host, Fox’s chief political anchor. This challenge was issued by Talarico, who is also a member of the Texas House of Representatives, during the Texas Tribune Festival in Austin.

For Democrats, flipping the Senate in November represents a significant opportunity. Winning a seat in Texas, typically a Republican stronghold, is crucial for their ambitions. Talarico accused Paxton of avoiding debates, stating that Paxton declined invitations from three local Texas TV stations.

Talarico remarked, “So let’s go to Ken Paxton’s safe space. Let’s do Bret Baier on Fox News. I’ll go into the lion’s den.”

Though in July, Nick Maddux, a senior campaign adviser for Paxton, mentioned plans to debate Talarico, no event has been scheduled.

Inflation and Economy: Advantage Talarico

A survey conducted by the Texas Politics Project with 1,200 registered Texan voters showed inflation as a primary concern for 19% of respondents. This was followed by political corruption and leadership at 15%. Both the economy and immigration were concerns for 10% each. A YouGov poll conducted with 1,596 U.S. adults showed 41% of voters believe Democrats would handle the economy better, compared to 37% supporting Republicans. Democrats’ perceived economic advantage seems to extend to Texas, favoring Talarico.

Ethics and Trust: Advantage Talarico

Political corruption was a major concern for Texan voters, as per the Texas Politics Project survey. Paxton’s reputation has been tarnished by various scandals. In May 2023, the Texas House, controlled by Republicans, voted to impeach Paxton over allegations of abuse of public trust. Although he was acquitted by the state Senate, the events damaged his standing. GOP Senator John Cornyn has voiced opposition, labeling Paxton as a “known con man and fraud.”

Republican state Senator Angela Paxton filed for divorce from the attorney general in 2025 but urged Republicans to support the party. A campaign video from February featured Paxton’s daughter, Mattie Hayworth, proclaiming her father’s virtues.

Immigration: Advantage Paxton

In a Univision/YouGov survey with 1,000 registered Texan voters, 49% approved of Trump’s handling of immigration. Meanwhile, 46% disapproved. During his presidency, illegal crossings along the U.S.-Mexico border decreased significantly.

Health Care: Advantage Talarico

A Texas Public Opinion Research poll showed strong support for Medicaid expansion, with 77% of Democrats and 63% of Republicans favoring it. Talarico focuses on health care access and vows to protect programs like Medicare and Social Security on his campaign website.

Christianity: Advantage Paxton

Paxton may capitalize on Talarico’s previous remarks about Christianity. In Texas, 67% identify as Christian, with 27% evangelical. In 2021, Talarico described God as “nonbinary” in a Texas House speech. Paxton shared a clip of Talarico calling himself “a Christian who hates Christianity,” sparking controversy.

Polls: Close Competition

Talarico currently leads in several polls, although many are within a close margin. Surveys from Emerson College and AARP show Talarico narrowly leading. A YouGov/Univision poll highlights a slight advantage for him as well.

Campaign Financing and Developments

Talarico has significantly outpaced Paxton in fundraising, reporting $31.6 million compared to Paxton’s $9.3 million. Additionally, Paxton has received $5 million from MAGA Inc., a major Trump-supporting political action committee.
Recent statements from Paxton’s campaign have stirred controversy, addressing Talarico’s associations and remarks. Meanwhile, Talarico has openly criticized ICE for shooting Wilber Perez.

Significance of the 2026 Texas Senate Race

Democrats seek to capture both legislative chambers in November. If successful, this would hinder Trump’s legislative plans for the latter half of his second term. Historically leaning Republican, Texas has not elected a Democratic senator since 1988, marking a Talarico victory as a significant shift. As of late September, Race to the White House gives Democrats a 70.5% chance for a Senate majority.