James Talarico breaks fundraising records in Texas Senate race

Democrat James Talarico has set a new record for Senate campaign fundraising, collecting $64 million during the third quarter of the year. This figure surpasses the previous record held by Jaime Harrison, who raised $57 million in 2020.

Talarico, a 37-year-old former teacher and seminarian, is running for a Senate seat in Texas. His campaign reports that the funds were raised through grassroots support without contributions from corporate PACs. By the end of June, his total fundraising had reached nearly $70 million, significantly outpacing his Republican opponent, Ken Paxton.

The election is considered highly consequential for the Republican Party, as losing the Texas Senate seat could jeopardize their majority in the upper chamber. While Republican Governor Greg Abbott faces a competitive reelection against Democrat Gina Hinojosa, the Senate race remains the primary concern for conservatives due to polling showing Democrats in the lead.