Politics
GOP pour millions into Texas Senate race as Democrats debate aid
Republican groups are outspending Democrats in Texas by over $70 million this month to support Ken Paxton, according to The Washington Sun.
The short version
- Republican super PACs are directing tens of millions into Texas to support Ken Paxton against Democratic nominee James Talarico, who leads in recent polling.[The Washington Sun]
- Talarico held a significant cash-on-hand lead at the end of June, but heavy outside spending by national Republicans is counteracting his campaign funds.[The Washington Sun]
- Senate Democrats remain divided over whether to allocate national campaign funds to Texas or focus on defending other battleground states.[The Washington Sun]
Key facts
- Republicans outspent Democrats by over $70 million in Texas during September 2026, backed by major super PAC investments.[The Washington Sun]
- A leadership-linked Republican super PAC spent over $60 million on ads supporting Paxton in September 2026, alongside contributions from Donald Trump's and Elon Musk's PACs.[The Washington Sun]
- September 2026 polls from AARP and Siena Research/ReconMR showed Talarico leading Paxton by 4 to 6 percentage points among voters.[The Washington Sun]
- Talarico reported $21.5 million in cash on hand at the end of June 2026, compared to Paxton's $1.8 million.[The Washington Sun]
What remains uncertain
- It is uncertain whether national Democratic groups will increase direct spending in Texas prior to Election Day.[The Washington Sun]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.