Democrat James Talarico Defeats Ken Paxton in Texas Senate Race, DDHQ Projects
The state representative beat the Trump-backed attorney general for the seat held by John Cornyn, the first Democratic Senate win in Texas since 1988.
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Democrat James Talarico has defeated Republican Ken Paxton in the Texas Senate race, Decision Desk HQ projected. The call came at 10:14 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.
The result flips a Republican-held seat in the most populous Republican-leaning state. Talarico would be the first Democrat to win a Senate race in Texas since Lloyd Bentsen in 1988.
Paxton Ousted Cornyn in the Primary
The seat is held by Republican Sen. John Cornyn, a four-term incumbent. Paxton, the state attorney general, beat Cornyn in a May 26 runoff with President Donald Trump’s endorsement.
Talarico, a state representative, won the Democratic primary over Rep. Jasmine Crockett. He called Paxton the most corrupt politician in America during the campaign.
With an estimated 60% of the vote counted, Talarico led 57.4% to 41.1%, Decision Desk HQ tallies showed.
Another Democratic Pickup
NBC News rated the race as leaning toward Talarico shortly before the call. Paxton was impeached on bribery and corruption charges in 2023 but acquitted by the state Senate.
Earlier, Democrat Annie Andrews flipped a Senate seat in South Carolina. Decision Desk HQ also projected that Democrats will win the House.
Kamer Kurunç
Kamer Kurunç is the Team Leader of Clash Report and has led the outlet for four years. He oversees its breaking world news coverage, from the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine war to defense and global politics. His focus is fast, verified, source-based reporting. Follow him on X at @kamerknc.
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