Do Texas Democrats want to win statewide elections? The question, according to recent analysis, is whether winning even ranks among their top priorities.
Internal Divisions Threaten Texas Democrats’ Senate Hopes
A crucial Senate election in Texas this November could shift the balance of power in the chamber. However, Texas Democrats have not won a statewide election since 1994. Recent internal conflicts within the party are raising questions about their commitment to victory.
Historically, Democrats hoped the state’s growing Latino population would propel them back into the majority. This expectation, the analysis suggests, may have led the party to avoid appealing to the state’s conservative-leaning voters. More recently, those hopes have diminished as Latino voters shifted rightward in 2024, holding more moderate views on issues like immigration than progressive activists.
Despite this, a window for a Democratic resurgence has opened with Donald Trump alienating some of his previous supporters. The state appears poised for a potential shift, but the analysis points to the Texas Democratic Party itself as the primary obstacle.
The latest example of this internal strife occurred earlier this week when Colin Allred, a former Senate candidate, endorsed Jasmine Crockett in the ongoing primary. Allred cited a claim, originating from a TikTok post by activist Morgan Thompson, that James Talarico had made a disparaging remark about him to a Black woman.
Allred stated he understood Talarico had said he’d initially planned to run against a “mediocre Black man” – referring to Allred – rather than a “formidable, intelligent Black woman” – referring to Crockett. Talarico denies making the statement, claiming he only described Allred’s campaign as “mediocre.”
The incident highlights what the analysis describes as “pathological incompetence” within the party, with Crockett and her supporters potentially exacerbating divisions. The analysis also notes the use of “social-justice jargon” that may not resonate with most Texas voters.
More broadly, the analysis suggests a pattern of Texas Democratic candidates prioritizing national visibility and fundraising over broad appeal within the state. Candidates like Wendy Davis, Beto O’Rourke, and Julián Castro have all run high-profile campaigns, lost, and subsequently transitioned to roles in the progressive movement.
This year, with a potential backlash against the Trump administration and shifting views among Latino voters, Democrats have an opportunity to pursue a different strategy. However, the analysis suggests that Crockett, with her focus on viral moments and sharp rhetoric, may not be the candidate to capitalize on this opportunity.
Crockett reportedly dismissed concerns about her electability and even suggested that winning wasn’t the primary goal of her campaign. She has also faced accusations of racism for comments made about Governor Greg Abbott and Latino voters who supported Trump.
The analysis notes that Crockett’s campaign appears to have been encouraged by polling data from the National Republican Senatorial Committee, suggesting the GOP believes she is the weakest Democratic candidate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central argument of this analysis?
The analysis argues that the Texas Democratic Party may be prioritizing national fundraising and progressive ideals over actually winning elections in the state.
What role did Colin Allred play in the recent controversy?
Colin Allred, a former Senate candidate, endorsed Jasmine Crockett and publicly accused James Talarico of making a racially charged statement, based on a claim from a TikTok post.
What is the significance of the upcoming Senate election in Texas?
The Senate election in Texas could potentially shift the balance of power in the Senate, and the analysis suggests Democrats have a unique opportunity to win, but are hampered by internal divisions and strategic choices.
Given the current political landscape and the internal challenges facing the party, what steps, if any, could Texas Democrats take to improve their chances of winning statewide elections?
