On December 8, 2025, Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett declared her intention to run for the U.S. Senate seat in Texas, a significant move for the Democratic Party as it seeks to regain a Senate majority in the upcoming midterm elections. Crockett, who represents a Dallas-area district and has served two terms in the House, is challenging incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn, who is pursuing re-election in a state that has historically leaned Republican.

Crockett's announcement coincided with former Representative Colin Allred's decision to withdraw from the Senate race to run for a congressional seat in a newly drawn district in Dallas County. This shift in the Democratic primary landscape positions Crockett against state Representative James Talarico, who has garnered attention for his critiques of Republican policies, including those related to education and social equity.

The primary election is scheduled for March 3, 2026. If no candidate secures a majority, the top two will advance to a runoff on May 26. The Democratic Party aims to reclaim control of the Senate, requiring a net gain of four seats in the November elections, with Texas being a critical battleground after years of Republican dominance.

Crockett has gained national recognition for her outspoken criticism of former President Donald Trump and her confrontational style in the House Oversight Committee. However, her progressive views have raised concerns among some party members about their potential impact on the Democratic Party's competitiveness in Texas. Notably, her remarks regarding Governor Greg Abbott and allegations related to campaign contributions have attracted scrutiny.

On the Republican side, Senator Cornyn faces challenges from within his party, particularly from Attorney General Ken Paxton and Representative Wesley Hunt, who argue that Cornyn's centrist approach does not align with the party's current direction. National Republican figures have suggested that Crockett's nomination could bolster Cornyn's re-election prospects.

Crockett's campaign emphasizes her appeal to Black and Latino voters, which she believes is crucial for flipping the Senate seat. As the race unfolds, the Democratic Party must navigate internal dynamics and present a united front to enhance their chances in this pivotal election cycle.