State Rep. James Talarico defeated Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, and state Rep. Gina Hinojosa was elected to become Texas’sย first Democratic governor since Ann Richards lost her reelection bid in 1994.
2026 Texas elections
Clayton Tucker becomes first Democratic agriculture commissioner in nearly 40 yearsย
Tucker will usher in a new era for the agriculture department as the agencyโs first Democratic commissioner since Jim Hightower in 1990.
Jon Rosenthal wins Texas Railroad Commission race, the first Dem to hold the role in 32 years
Rosenthal defeated Bo French in a race that drew national attention for Frenchโs racist remarks. The position regulates Texas’ oil and gas industry.
It’s not just Talarico. New Texas poll shows Dems statistically tied in key statewide races
Republicans trail behind Democrats in voter enthusiasm, a University of Texas/Texas Politics Project University of Texas/Texas Politics Project poll shows.
On the issues: A Q&A with U.S. Senate candidates James Talarico, Ken Paxton and Ted Brown
Ken Paxton and James Talarico are in a close race for Texasโ U.S. Senate seat, with Ted Brown also on the ballot. See where they stand on THC, data centers and Flock cameras. Talarico and Brown answered our questions; Paxton did not, so we used his past public statements to describe his positions.
2026ย Texas attorney general race: Who is running and what to know
Republican Mayes Middleton, Democrat Nathan Johnson and Libertarian Tom Oxford are running to replace Ken Paxton. Hereโs where they stand.
Texas 15th Court of Appeals race: Who is running and what to know
Three seats on Texasโ 15th Court of Appeals are on the ballot in November. The court hears challenges to state laws and other consequential civil cases. Hereโs what to know about the candidates.
Watch: Pod Save America hosts live show at the 2026 Texas Tribune Festival
The hosts of one of America’s most popular political podcasts bring their live show to Austin at 4 p.m. Friday.

