Texas braces for competitive showdown as Democrats gain momentum in 2026 midterms

With November nearing, Texas Republicans face an unprecedented opening as Democrats field a competitive statewide slate; polls show Democrat James Talarico closing the gap with Ken Paxton, and national forecasters call the Senate race a toss-up, while Governor Abbott and other Texas GOP figures push to maintain turnout amid concerns over data centers and a faltering economy. Down-ballot races could be swayed by the top-ticket dynamics, potentially reshaping the Texas Legislature after decades of Republican control.