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Former Vice President Kamala Harris has thrown her support behind U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett in Texas’ Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, providing a significant endorsement as Crockett faces concerns about her electability in a general election.
Harris recorded a robocall endorsing Crockett, the congresswoman’s campaign confirmed Friday. The endorsement comes at a critical juncture, just days before Tuesday’s primary contest against state Representative James Talarico, who has positioned himself as a moderate Democrat capable of attracting Republican voters in the traditionally conservative state.
Crockett has gained national attention for her confrontational style in Congress, where she has established herself as an outspoken critic of conservative policies. Her forceful approach has resonated with Democratic voters seeking representatives willing to directly challenge former President Donald Trump and his allies.
The Texas primary represents the first major electoral contest of the 2026 midterm cycle and will set the stage for what promises to be a challenging Senate race for Democrats in November. While Texas has shown signs of becoming more competitive in recent elections, it remains a Republican stronghold at the statewide level.
Harris’ endorsement coincided with Trump’s campaign visit to Corpus Christi, Texas. Despite the proximity to the primary election, Trump has not publicly backed incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn or any of the challengers who have positioned themselves as Trump loyalists.
The Senate race dynamics reflect broader tensions within both parties. For Democrats, there’s an ongoing debate about whether to nominate candidates who energize the base with progressive messaging or those who might appeal to moderate and independent voters. Talarico has embraced the latter strategy, emphasizing his ability to work across party lines in a state where Democratic success often requires Republican crossover support.
Crockett, by contrast, has embraced a more combative approach that mirrors the increasingly polarized nature of national politics. Her supporters argue that authentic progressive voices can mobilize new voters and expand the Democratic coalition in ways that traditional centrist candidates cannot.
Texas’ changing demographics have given Democrats hope in recent years, with growing populations in urban centers and among younger voters potentially shifting the state’s political landscape. However, Republicans have maintained their grip on statewide offices, with no Democrat winning a U.S. Senate seat in Texas since Lloyd Bentsen’s reelection in 1988.
Political analysts suggest that while the seat remains a longshot for Democrats in November, factors including candidate quality, national political trends, and voter turnout could create an opening. The party hopes that a strong showing in this primary and a unified approach afterward might position them to capitalize on any Republican vulnerabilities.
Harris’ endorsement also signals her continued influence within the Democratic Party and her willingness to wade into competitive primaries. As a former prosecutor and senator herself, Harris brings particular credibility to down-ballot races that could shape the future makeup of Congress.
The Texas Tribune first reported Harris’ endorsement of Crockett.
The primary outcome on Tuesday will provide early insights into voter sentiment heading into the 2026 midterms and could offer clues about how both parties might position themselves as the election cycle progresses. Whether Texas Democrats opt for Crockett’s confrontational approach or Talarico’s appeal to moderation may well influence candidate recruitment and messaging strategies in other competitive states.
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9 Comments
I’m curious to see how Crockett’s stance on energy and natural resource issues like oil, gas, and mining will play out in Texas. That could be a key factor in determining her electability, given the importance of those industries in the state’s economy.
This race could be an interesting test case for the Democratic party’s strategy of embracing more progressive candidates. It will be worth watching to see if Crockett’s brand of confrontational politics resonates with Texas voters or if they prefer a more moderate approach.
Interesting to see Kamala Harris endorse Jasmine Crockett in the Texas Senate primary. Crockett seems to be positioning herself as a progressive challenger, while Talarico is aiming for more of a moderate appeal. This race could provide an early glimpse into the Democrats’ electoral strategy for 2026.
The endorsement from Kamala Harris gives Crockett a significant boost, but I wonder how much that will actually move the needle in a state like Texas. Voters there may be more interested in the candidates’ positions on issues like the economy, energy, and border security.
I’m curious to see how Crockett’s confrontational style in Congress will play out in a statewide race. Her national profile may help her energize the Democratic base, but it could also make her a tougher sell for more conservative-leaning voters in Texas.
That’s a good point. Crockett’s combative approach could be a double-edged sword – it may excite her base but potentially alienate some moderate voters. The Texas electorate is still a tough nut for Democrats to crack.
The timing of this endorsement, just days before the primary, suggests Harris and the Democratic establishment are really pushing hard for Crockett. It will be interesting to see if that last-minute boost is enough to propel her to victory over the more moderate Talarico.
You’re right, the timing of the endorsement is notable. It seems like the party is going all-in on Crockett, likely hoping her progressive profile can energize the base and overcome her perceived electability challenges.
Texas has been a tough nut for Democrats to crack in recent years, so this race will be an important test case. Crockett’s confrontational style may resonate with some, but I wonder if a more measured, moderate approach from Talarico could be the better path to victory in the general election.