Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett officially announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate in Texas on Monday, confirming speculation that had circulated for weeks. Her entry into the race comes just hours before the deadline for candidates to file, positioning her to challenge incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn, who is concurrently facing a challenge from within his party by state Attorney General Ken Paxton.
The political landscape shifted further on the same day when former Representative Colin Allred declared he would withdraw from the Senate race. Allred cited concerns that a contentious Democratic primary could weaken the party’s chances in the upcoming elections. In a social media post, he expressed his belief that “a bruising Senate Democratic primary and runoff would prevent the Democratic Party from going into this critical election unified against the danger posed to our communities and our Constitution by Donald Trump and one of his Republican bootlickers.”
While Allred steps aside, state Representative James Talarico continues his campaign for the Senate seat, indicating a competitive Democratic primary ahead.
Crockett has indicated confidence in her candidacy, revealing that her team has gathered data supporting her potential as a strong contender. “The evaluation made it clear that the coalition that won the elections that took place on November 4 was heavily comprised of Black and Brown folks,” she stated. “When you look at the numbers in New Jersey, Virginia, Black and Brown people showed up and voted the right way. I am the leading candidate when it comes to those specific constituencies. So it does make it to where I am very formidable regardless of what people may want to put out.”
Recent polling data reflects Crockett’s strong position among potential Democratic candidates. A survey conducted by the University of Houston and Texas Southern University from September 19 to October 1, 2023, included responses from over 1,600 registered voters. The results indicated that Crockett garnered 31% of voter support, leading Talarico and former Senate candidate Beto O’Rourke, who each received 25%, while Allred trailed with 13%. The poll had a margin of error of +/- 2.4%.
As the race develops, Crockett’s focus on coalition-building among diverse voter demographics may play a crucial role in her campaign strategy. With the Texas Senate seat being a vital target for Democrats in the upcoming election cycle, the momentum she has established could significantly influence the party’s overall approach in the state.
