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Texas Republicans Endorse Democrat Talarico for Senate

Former GOP congressman Alan Steelman and other party members are backing James Talarico over Ken Paxton.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Political Parties

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More than 20 Texas Republicans, including Alan Steelman and Neil Bush, have endorsed Democrat James Talarico in his Senate bid against Ken Paxton. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Former Republican Congressman Alan Steelman has endorsed Democrat James Talarico in the Texas Senate race, joining a growing group of GOP figures crossing party lines. More than 20 Texas Republicans are now campaigning for Talarico in opposition to Ken Paxton.

Why it matters

The endorsements reflect internal divisions within the Texas GOP, with prominent figures citing concerns over Ken Paxton's conduct as attorney general. Some supporters, including Neil Bush, have pointed to character as the primary motivator for their decision.

The ActiVote survey indicates Talarico holds a 52.1% to 47.9% lead over Paxton. Meanwhile, other polls show tighter races, including a Fox News survey where the candidates are tied at 49% and a University of Houston poll showing Talarico at 48% to Paxton's 46%.

The players

Alan Steelman

He is a former Republican congressman from Texas who previously served as the executive director of the Republican Party of Dallas County.

James Talarico

He is the Democratic candidate running for the Texas Senate seat.

Ken Paxton

He is the Republican candidate in the Texas Senate race.

Neil Bush

He is a prominent figure who has publicly voted for James Talarico.

The details

Talarico's campaign released a formal list of Republican endorsements that includes figures such as Steve Bartlett, Adam Kinzinger, and Tom Phillips. This effort to broaden support among voters includes a strong showing with independents, where Talarico currently polls at 66% support.

Timeline

  1. Alan Steelman served in Congress during the 1970s.

  2. The University of Houston polled 2,000 likely voters from October 10-14, 2026.

  3. Texas Public Opinion Research surveyed 969 voters from October 15-18, 2026.

  4. Fox News polled 1,398 likely voters from October 15-19, 2026.

  5. ActiVote surveyed 400 likely voters from October 22-28, 2026.

Political Context

The endorsements for James Talarico represent a calculated attempt to peel away moderate GOP voters in the high-stakes Texas Senate race. Opposition from within the party highlights a substantive policy and character-based pushback against the current Republican platform led by Ken Paxton.

These endorsements could influence undecided voters by signaling that crossing party lines is an acceptable option in the current political climate. The shifting coalition may ultimately impact the final election tally and the future representation of the state senate.

The takeaway

Voters should look beyond party labels to understand the specific character and conduct concerns cited by those changing their support. Following how different voting blocs, such as independents, react to these cross-party endorsements can provide a clearer picture of the likely election outcome.

Further reading

For more on the current state of party alignment, visit Texas Political Parties.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Newsweek.

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