Texas Senate race heats up as Ken Paxton faces abuse‑case controversy

Democratic state Rep. James Talarico is contesting Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for a U.S. Senate seat, a race Senator Ted Cruz has described as a close, one‑ or two‑point contest.

Talarico alleges that Paxton’s office struck a “sweetheart deal” with former Waco attorney Adam Hoffman, who had been charged with repeatedly sexually abusing an eight‑year‑old boy. Hoffman pleaded guilty to reduced misdemeanor charges and was sentenced to 60 days in jail, serving only 29 days, and was not required to register as a sex offender. The AG’s office denied Talarico’s request for case files, prompting accusations of a cover‑up.

The controversy has drawn national attention, with Cruz commenting on the race’s volatility. Fundraising highlights the disparity: Talarico’s campaign has raised about $30 million, roughly three times Paxton’s $9 million haul for the same period.