U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett has officially launched her campaign for the Democrat nomination for U.S. Senate, setting up a high-profile primary fight in a year already defined by national attention and volatile party politics.
Crockett, a second-term congresswoman, has drawn national headlines for incendiary remarks, including repeatedly comparing President Donald Trump to Adolf Hitler and referring to Gov. Greg Abbott as “hot wheels” and a “hot ass mess”. She enters the race with instant name recognition and a media presence that Democrat strategists believe could energize the far-left base.
She faces State Rep. James Talarico, who announced his bid earlier this year. With two outspoken progressives now sharing the ballot, Democrats are bracing for an ideological showdown rather than a coronation.
Earlier Monday, former U.S. Rep. Colin Allred withdrew from the Senate race, announcing instead that he would run for the U.S. House.
On the Republican side, the U.S. Senate primary has already become a headline-grabbing battle.
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, seeking another term in the Senate, faces serious challenges from Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt for the GOP nomination.
Cornyn, who was first elected to the Senate in 2002, has faced increasing scrutiny from the right over his votes on gun control, border security, and his role in Senate leadership. Recent polls have shown him lagging behind his two challengers.
With a contentious GOP primary and an open field among Democrats, the 2026 Senate race is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in the country.
