James Talarico Secures Endorsement in Texas Senate Race Against Ken Paxton

Democrat James Talarico has become the nominee for the 2026 U.S. Senate election in Texas and will face Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, who defeated incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the primary. Paxton, who was acquitted in his 2023 impeachment trial and received former President Donald Trump’s endorsement, is the Republican front‑runner.

Houston criminal‑defense attorney Dan Cogdell, who previously represented Paxton, announced an unexpected endorsement of Talarico. Cogdell said he does not identify with either party, has historically contributed more to Republican candidates, and was surprised by the media attention his endorsement attracted. He noted his support was for Talarico rather than a stance against Paxton, and that he had not communicated the decision to Paxton.