James Talarico won the Democratic nomination to take on Ken Paxton. Help make history — Democrats haven't won a statewide race in Texas in over 30 years.
Teacher. Legislator. Democratic Nominee for U.S. Senate.
James is an eighth-generation Texan, former middle school teacher, and Presbyterian seminarian. Born in Round Rock, he earned degrees from UT Austin and Harvard University before teaching on the Westside of San Antonio — where he saw firsthand the challenges facing Texas families.
First elected to the Texas House at 28, James quickly became one of the state's most effective progressive legislators, earning a Top 10 Best Legislator designation from Texas Monthly. He led the fight against billionaire mega-donors and corrupt politicians who have taken over Texas.
Now, he's running for U.S. Senate to take that fight to Washington — and win power back for working people.
"It's time to start flipping tables."
Former middle school teacher; degrees from UT Austin & Harvard
Presbyterian studying for Master of Divinity at Austin Presbyterian Seminary
Texas House Representative; Top 10 Best Legislator — Texas Monthly
Type 1 diabetic fighting for affordable healthcare and prescription drugs
Fighting for progressive values and practical solutions for every Texan
Defending public schools against voucher schemes, increasing teacher pay, and ensuring every child has access to quality education.
Expanding Medicaid, capping insulin costs, and importing low-cost prescription drugs so no Texan has to choose between medicine and groceries.
Reforming a broken system with accountability, rehabilitation, and equal justice under the law for all Texans.
Investing in renewable energy, protecting Texas from extreme weather, and creating clean energy jobs across the state.
Protecting voting rights, LGBTQ+ equality, reproductive freedom, and the dignity of every Texan regardless of who they are.
Raising wages, supporting small businesses, and building an economy that works for working families — not just billionaires.
Real results delivered for Texas families in the state legislature
Helped write the most significant school finance reform in 20 years, bringing $11.6 billion in new funding to Texas schools. Established the first-ever cap on Pre-K class sizes.
Passed historic legislation capping insulin copays at $25/month and enabling Texas to import low-cost prescription drugs from Canada, saving Texans 60–70% on medications.
Authored Javier Ambler's Law to end police contracts with reality TV shows and ensured all incarcerated minors have the opportunity to earn a high school diploma.
89th Legislature — Full Bill Record:
National coverage of James Talarico's Senate campaign
James Talarico, the Democratic nominee, is tied with Ken Paxton, the Republican state attorney general — a remarkable result in a state Republicans have dominated for decades.
James Talarico's fundraising prowess and strong polling bodes well against a flawed GOP candidate in Ken Paxton — giving Democrats their best shot at a Texas Senate seat in a generation.
The newly minted Democratic U.S. Senate nominee in Texas is now a front man for the political opposition to the Republican president, not just in his own state but nationally.
Democrats haven't won a statewide race in Texas in over 30 years. With James tied in the polls against a scandal-plagued opponent, this is our moment. Every dollar and every volunteer hour counts.
Tools and information to help you get involved and stay informed
Registration, polling locations, and everything you need to vote on November 3.
Find and contact your elected representatives to make your voice heard.
Read James's full platform and detailed policy positions on the official campaign site.
Find upcoming events, town halls, and canvassing opportunities near you.