What Record-Breaking Texas Early Voting Says About Talarico vs. Paxton Race
Summary
Texas recorded 4,538,667 early votes by October 26, about 24 percent of registered voters and 74 percent above the total at the same point in the 2022 midterm cycle. The closely contested U.S. Senate race between Democrat James Talarico and Republican Ken Paxton has featured near-even polling, while an analyst said competitive races can boost turnout for both parties.Key Facts
- Texas had recorded 4,538,667 in-person and mail-in early votes as of October 26, according to unofficial figures from the secretary of state.
- Early voting began October 19, and turnout was 74 percent higher than at the same point in the 2022 midterm cycle.
- Harris County had the most early votes among the listed counties, with 624,646; Dallas County followed with 371,806.
- RealClearPolitics’ average of polls conducted October 8–21 showed Talarico leading Paxton 48.4 percent to 46.9 percent.
- A Fox News poll conducted October 15–19 found the candidates tied at 49 percent among likely voters, with a margin of error of 2.5 percentage points.
- Texas Democrats are seeking their first statewide election victory since 1994.
- AdImpact reported that $490.4 million had been spent on advertising in the Senate race across the primary, runoff and general election, making it the second-most expensive nonpresidential race on record.
- Political science professor D. Stephen Voss said a close contest can draw more voters and prompt outside groups to mobilize them.
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