Trump backs Paxton at Denton rally as poll shows Talarico edging ahead

President Donald Trump attended a rally at the Peterbilt Motors facility in Denton, lauding Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton as a loyal ally and attacking Democratic Senate hopeful James Talarico. A poll of 1,203 registered Texas voters, including 881 likely voters, placed Talarico at 51% and Paxton at 49%, a lead that falls within the survey’s 2.5-point margin of error. The same poll indicated that a majority of voters—51%—are extremely or very concerned about Paxton’s close ties to Trump, with the concern concentrated among Republicans who do not identify as MAGA.

Separate Rasmussen Reports and Texas Public Opinion Research polls also show Talarico with a slight advantage. Democrats view a win in Texas as essential to gaining Senate control, a feat not achieved by the party since 1988. The race is further complicated by Paxton’s prior impeachment and ongoing controversies, while Talarico promotes policies such as an AI dividend and marijuana legalization.