Texas Senate race tightens as Republican base faces betrayal by moderates
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A Texas Southern University poll shows the U.S. Senate contest between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico is nearly even, with moderate Republicans wavering and independents siding with the left, highlighting the dangers of party disunity.
A new poll from Texas Southern University's Barbara Jordan Public Policy Research and Survey Center shows the Texas U.S. Senate race tightening, with Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton now virtually tied with far-left Democratic state representative James Talarico. The survey reveals troubling signs within the Republican Party, as more than 25 percent of so-called 'moderate' Republicans are considering abandoning their party to support a Democrat—demonstrating the risks of ideological weakness and lack of unity. Meanwhile, independents, swayed by relentless liberal media narratives, continue to lean toward Talarico.
"I think you just have to keep pressing for all the earned or free media that you can get. Try to fundraise based on the idea that you could potentially win," said Mark Jones, a lead researcher for the poll.
Jones pointed out that Democrats are banking on national trends and media bias to boost their chances in November, while Republicans must work hard to bring wavering moderates back into the fold. He warned that the battle for the Senate seat could become the most expensive in Texas history, with campaign spending possibly exceeding $100 million as conservatives fight to defend their values.
The poll also examined other statewide races, showing that incumbent Republican Governor Greg Abbott maintains a four-point lead over Democrat Gina Hinojosa (49% to 45%), although 21% of likely voters remain uninformed about Hinojosa—a testament to the left's lack of visibility and experience. In the comptroller's race, Republican Don Huffines holds a solid 10-point advantage over Democrat Sarah Eckhardt, reflecting continued confidence in conservative fiscal management. Meanwhile, a recent social-media misstep by Railroad Commission candidate Bo French has temporarily reduced his favorability, but Democrat Jon Rosenthal remains two points behind.
Overall, the survey finds that 38% of voters may split their tickets and 24% are undecided, underscoring the urgent need for Republicans to unite and reject the left's divisive agenda.