Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico is campaigning in predominantly Hispanic border counties in Texas, seeking to win back voters who shifted to the Republican Party in the 2024 election. Talarico's strategy centers on economic issues, such as the rising cost of living, as he challenges Republican incumbent Ken Paxton, the Texas attorney general.
Historically Democratic, these border counties saw a notable shift towards Republican candidates in recent elections. Residents and local leaders often cite concerns about both border crossings and everyday prices as reasons for this change. While the flow of migrants has decreased since 2024, high living costs remain a persistent issue.
Talarico, a former middle school teacher and state lawmaker, is making an effort to connect with voters directly. During stops at local businesses like Memo's Restaurant in Eagle Pass, he has emphasized that the economic system is "rigged against us" and criticized the wealthy "mega donors" he says benefit from it. He aims to present himself as an alternative to politicians who he claims "demonize and weaponize" border communities.
This is not the first time a Democratic candidate has sought to energize voters in Texas. Beto O'Rourke made a similar effort in 2018. Despite past challenges, Democrats see reasons for optimism, noting that national approval ratings for former President Donald Trump among Hispanic adults have declined since the beginning of his term.
For many residents along the Rio Grande River, the immigration situation has been a significant concern. Some recall periods of overwhelming migrant presence that strained local resources and businesses. There is a sentiment among some that the Biden administration did not provide sufficient aid during such times. Hector Flores, a 72-year-old resident, noted a significant decrease in migrant presence, attributing the prior difficulties to the current administration.
Maverick County, for example, saw a substantial swing towards Trump in 2024, shifting from a Democratic majority in 2020 to a Republican one. Voters in the area, even those not closely following the Senate race, express concerns about the economy, immigration enforcement, and social issues.
Eduardo "Lalo" Riojas, who supports Talarico, noted the increased cost of groceries, stating that prices were "OK" under previous administrations. However, not all voters are swayed by the economic argument. Flores, who works with orphanages across the border, remains focused on his support for ICE operations and is not questioning his Republican vote based on prices.
Garcia, 76, who has voted for Trump multiple times, expressed reservations about Paxton's "horrible reputation," citing past allegations of corruption and personal scandals. He also mentioned Talarico's past statements about gender identity, which Paxton has used to criticize his opponent, appealing to conservative values.
Paxton's campaign has focused heavily on immigration enforcement, touting lawsuits against the Biden administration and endorsements from groups like the National Border Patrol Council. His campaign also asserts that Paxton shares the values of Hispanic voters and portrays Talarico as a "wimpy liberal." Paxton's director of Hispanic outreach, Alex Alarcon, stated that Paxton is seen as a "strong man who shares our values."
Talarico has also addressed immigration, pledging investment in surveillance technology and more border patrol agents and judges during a news conference in Sanderson. However, his campaign's primary focus remains on economic disparities and what he describes as a rigged system, aiming to persuade voters that promises made by Republicans have not been kept.