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Democratic Senate Primary in Texas: Talarico and Crockett in a Competitive Race

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Fort Worth, Texas – Texas Democrats are heading into a pivotal moment as the March 3 primary election approaches. The race for the U.S. Senate nomination between State Representative James Talarico and Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett has drawn national attention, with both candidates working to connect with voters across the state and highlight their policy priorities.

Endorsements and Candidate Positions

Former U.S. Representative Colin Allred recently endorsed Jasmine Crockett, emphasizing her legislative experience and vision for Texas. The endorsement comes amid scrutiny over remarks made by Talarico that received public attention, which he has clarified were intended to critique campaign messaging rather than target any individual.

James Talarico has focused on education, economic development, and community engagement, while Jasmine Crockett highlights her accomplishments in Congress and emphasizes healthcare access, social equity, and constituent services. Both campaigns are emphasizing positive engagement with voters, aiming to build momentum while uniting supporters around shared Democratic priorities.

Polling and Fundraising

The race is statistically very close. A January poll by Texas Public Opinion Research, surveying 1,290 likely Democratic primary voters, showed Crockett at 38 percent, Talarico at 37 percent, with 21 percent undecided. The survey, conducted between January 14–21 with a margin of error of ±3.7 percentage points, reflects a dead heat at this stage, with Crockett showing strength among Black voters and middle-aged, non-college-educated voters, while Talarico has a slight edge among Latino, white, and college-educated voters. (fox4news.com)

Earlier polling by Emerson College Polling and Nexstar Media showed Talarico leading 47 percent to 38 percent among likely Democratic voters, illustrating how different methodologies and timing can affect snapshots of voter preferences. (fox4news.com)

Both candidates are well-funded for the final stretch. Campaign finance reports show Talarico with approximately $7.1 million cash on hand and Crockett with $5.6 million, allowing both campaigns to continue outreach efforts across Texas. (texastribune.org)

Primary Timeline

  • Early Voting: February 17 – March 1, 2026

  • Primary Election Day: March 3, 2026

Voter engagement will be crucial, with both candidates emphasizing outreach and participation in the final weeks leading up to the primary.

Implications for Fort Worth and Texas

The Democratic Senate primary is shaping how Texas Democrats prepare for the November general election. While Democrats have experienced notable gains in recent special elections, the party’s ability to unite behind a nominee may influence statewide momentum. For Fort Worth voters, the race represents an opportunity to weigh candidates’ positions on education, healthcare, and economic policy while participating in a competitive primary that reflects the state’s evolving political landscape.

At a Glance: Key Polling, Fundraising, and Dates

Polling Highlights

  • Crockett 38 % vs. Talarico 37 % — Texas Public Opinion Research, Jan. 2026 (fox4news.com)

  • Emerson College Poll: Talarico 47 % vs. Crockett 38 % (fox4news)

Fundraising Snapshot

  • James Talarico: ~$7.1 million cash on hand (texastribune)

  • Jasmine Crockett: ~$5.6 million cash on hand (texastribune)

Important Dates

  • Early Voting: February 17 – March 1, 2026

  • Primary Election Day: March 3, 2026

    ©Photo FOU News/Support Among Likely Democratic Voters: Crockett vs. Talarico (Jan 2026)
    Poll data source: Texas Public Opinion Research, January 2026; survey of 1,290 likely Democratic primary voters, margin of error ±3.7%.

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