FORT WORTH, Texas — On the first day of early voting in Texas, U.S. Senate candidates Ken Paxton and James Talarico both held campaign events in Fort Worth, underscoring the importance of Tarrant County as a pivotal battleground in the race. The county, which includes Fort Worth and its suburbs, has emerged as a critical area for both Republicans and Democrats vying for statewide office.
Paxton, the incumbent Texas attorney general and Republican candidate, delivered a speech to a crowd of more than 200 supporters at a historic train station venue, framed as a defense of traditional American values. Appearing with endorsements from conservative figures and aligned with former President Donald Trump—whose backing is prominently displayed on Paxton’s campaign bus—Paxton portrayed the contest as a high-stakes battle against progressive forces. He warned that a vote for Talarico, the Democratic challenger, would equate to supporting national Democratic leadership, specifically Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Among those at Paxton’s event was Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who praised Paxton’s use of power in a manner likened to Trump’s approach, though he did not formally endorse the candidate. Conservative figures, including state comptroller Don Huffines and commentator Sara Gonzales, also spoke in support of Paxton, warning against Talarico’s candidacy. Paxton, speaking calmly from a teleprompter, proposed various tax relief measures aimed at addressing the state’s rising cost of living.
In contrast, Talarico’s rally, held about a 15-minute drive away at North Crowley High School, drew a significantly larger crowd of over 1,000 supporters. Talarico framed the race as an opportunity to unite Texans and challenge what he described as a system “rigged” by elite interests and political figures like Paxton. Emphasizing a bipartisan, inclusive message, Talarico invoked imagery from Texas culture and highlighted his progressive Christian faith as a foundation for his campaign.
Democrats see Tarrant County as key to flipping Texas in their favor, noting recent shifts in suburban voting patterns. Earlier this year, Democrat Taylor Rehmet won a special election for a State Senate seat in a traditionally Republican part of the county, signaling potential momentum for the party. However, Republicans have sought to adapt their messaging, with some GOP candidates moderating their affiliations with former President Trump and focusing on issues like affordability.
The political landscape in Tarrant County has also been affected by decisions from local officials. Over the summer, Republican-led Tarrant County Commissioners Court reduced the number of Election Day polling locations by about a third, including closures near major university campuses. While officials described the move as a cost-saving measure, Democrats argued it could disproportionately impact Black and Hispanic voters, potentially galvanizing turnout efforts within their base.
At Talarico’s event, Democratic leaders spoke optimistically about early voting trends, viewing mobilization as crucial for success. Among Talarico’s supporters was former Republican state representative Todd Smith, who cited Talarico’s religious convictions as a reason for his endorsement. Conversely, at Paxton’s rally, his campaign questioned Talarico’s faith, highlighting a past statement in which Talarico said he was “a Christian who hates Christianity,” a comment the candidate made in a podcast discussion to critique certain uses of theology.
The race in Texas remains highly competitive, with Tarrant County at the forefront of both campaigns’ strategies as they seek to influence one of the most consequential Senate contests in recent years.