Talarico, Paxton Tie in Texas Senate Poll

A new Hill/Emerson College Polling survey released Thursday shows the Texas Senate race between Democrat James Talarico, a state lawmaker, and Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton remains virtually tied less than seven weeks before Election Day. The poll reports 47 percent of state voters favoring Talarico and 46 percent backing Paxton, leaving a one‑percentage‑point margin that is statistically indistinguishable.

The survey, conducted in the run‑up to the November 5 election, highlights the competitive nature of the seat. Talarico, who has served in the Texas House of Representatives, is challenging the incumbent AG, who has held statewide office since 2015. The narrow gap reflects the broader partisan split in Texas, where the Senate seat could tip the balance of power in the state legislature.

With the election only weeks away, both campaigns are likely to intensify outreach efforts. The poll’s close result underscores the importance of every vote in a race that could influence the composition of the Texas Senate and the state's policy agenda.