Texas Senate race bids to break Democratic drought

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 1 Nov, 14:58 · Archive

Democrats hope to win a Texas Senate seat for the first time since 1988 in what is shaping as the most expensive non-presidential race in US history.

The Texas Senate race between Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton and Democratic State Representative James Talarico is shaping as a pivotal contest for control of the US Senate. More than half a billion dollars has been spent on the campaign, making it the most expensive non-presidential race in American history. Polls show the two candidates in a tight race going into Election Day.

Talarico, a 37-year-old former middle-school teacher and Presbyterian seminarian, would represent a significant breakthrough for Democrats if he wins. The party has not won a statewide Texas Senate race since 1988 and has faced a losing streak in statewide elections stretching back more than three decades. A Republican campaign strategist said a Democratic victory would cause 'soul searching' within the Republican Party.

The race reflects broader national concerns including high prices, immigration and government corruption. Paxton, who has had a tenure marked by controversy, is President Trump's chosen candidate. Talarico has drawn his campaign theme from the television show 'Friday Night Lights', telling supporters they must 'execute' and 'leave it all on the field' to win.

How it is being reported

• The issue that could tip the scales in the Texas Senate raceThe contest between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico may determine control of the U.S. Senate. "Sunday Morning" talks with the candidates' supporters and local observers about a race that has drawn interest from around the country.CBS News · 1 Nov, 14:37
• The issue that could tip the scales in the Texas Senate raceAll eyes are on the Senate race in Texas, the outcome of which may determine control of the Senate in Washington; and with more than half a billion dollars spent so far, the contest between Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton and Democratic State Representative James Talarico is the most expensive non-presidential race in U.S. history. "Sunday Morning" national correspondent Robert Costa talks with the candidates' supporters, and with local observers, about a race that has drawn interest from around the country, and how the rising cost of food, gas and housing could prove a tipping point…CBS News · 1 Nov, 14:36
• Democrats are used to heartbreak in Texas - could Talarico turn the tide?The state's $500m Senate race may be the most closely watched in the US midterms, and is about far more than control of Congress.BBC News · 1 Nov, 06:03

In this story: James Talarico · Ken Paxton · Texas · United States

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