Jasmine Crockett Files to Run for U.S. Senate in Texas, Shaking Up 2026 Democratic Primary
Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) has officially entered the 2026 race for U.S. Senate in Texas, filing last-minute paperwork to compete in the Democratic primary set for March. The fiery Dallas-area congresswoman, known for her unapologetic style and vocal opposition to President Donald Trump, is now positioned to become the Democratic frontrunner in one of the most closely watched Senate races of the cycle.
Crockett had teased her decision for weeks, sparking speculation among political insiders. “My decision to go one way or another will be based upon facts & not feelings… historical data, trends, etc,” she posted on X before filing. On Monday, that speculation ended with her official entry.
A Reshuffling Democratic Field
Crockett’s move appears to have already impacted the field. Former Rep. Colin Allred, who unsuccessfully challenged Sen. Ted Cruz in 2024, abruptly dropped out of the race earlier in the day, writing on X that he was “forever grateful” to supporters but giving no specific reason for his exit. The timing suggests Crockett’s entry was a factor.
Texas State Rep. James Talarico, however, is staying in the race. In a statement, he welcomed Crockett to the contest, framing his campaign as a grassroots alternative: “We’re building a movement in Texas fueled by record-breaking grassroots fundraising and 10,000 volunteers.”
Republican Battle Underway
On the Republican side, the fight to succeed Sen. John Cornyn is heating up. Cornyn is facing strong primary challenges from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt, both of whom are running as staunch allies of President Trump. So far, Trump has not endorsed a candidate, keeping the field open and speculation high.
This primary battle is seen as pivotal to who can best support Trump’s agenda in what may be his final two years in office. With Republicans holding 53 seats in the Senate, the 2026 elections could determine whether Trump leaves office with a full legislative majority—or faces gridlock from a Democrat-controlled Senate.
Crockett’s Political Profile
At 44, Crockett has quickly become a rising star in the Democratic Party. She gained national recognition during the 2024 cycle as a reliable surrogate for Joe Biden and for her combative performances in congressional hearings. Crockett’s brand of politics has drawn comparisons to members of “The Squad,” and her Senate run is expected to energize progressive voters, particularly in urban centers like Dallas and Houston.
However, her confrontational style and outspoken criticism of President Trump could be a liability in a general election in Texas, where Trump won handily in 2024 and remains popular.
Texas Remains a Tough Battleground for Democrats
Despite national interest and Democrat hopes, Texas remains an uphill climb. The Cook Political Report currently rates the 2026 Senate contest as “Likely Republican.” Trump’s strength in the state, coupled with his massive fundraising and ground game operations, make any statewide race a long shot for Democrats.
Still, Crockett’s candidacy could force national Democrats to reallocate attention and resources to Texas, especially if she runs a race that captures grassroots momentum and garners attention from liberal donors nationwide.
With both primaries shaping up to be bruising fights, Texas is once again set to be a political battlefield—with the future of the Senate and Trump’s legislative agenda hanging in the balance.