UPDATE: U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett is set to launch her Senate campaign today at 4:30 PM, a move that could significantly shift the dynamics of the race for the seat currently held by Republican John Cornyn. With the candidate filing deadline approaching at 6 PM today, Crockett’s entry into the March 3, 2024, Democratic primary could reshape the competition.
If Crockett files her candidacy, she will join an already competitive primary field that includes former U.S. Rep. Colin Allred and state Rep. James Talarico. The Democratic nominee will face the winner of the GOP primary, which features Cornyn, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt, in a high-stakes general election this November.
This announcement is critical as polls indicate that Democratic voters are eager for a candidate who is unapologetic in their fight against former President Donald Trump. “Voters are looking for someone who’s unapologetic in defending our values,” said Kardal Coleman, chairman of the Dallas County Democratic Party. “The candidate who can exemplify what it means to be a Texas Democrat will have the most success.”
Crockett, who represents District 30 in Dallas, is known for her fierce criticism of Trump and his policies. Since entering Congress, she has gained national recognition, raising over $4.6 million in her campaign account. A recent University of Houston-Texas Southern University poll shows her leading the Democratic field with 31% support, ahead of Talarico and Allred, who received 25% and 13% support respectively.
The urgency of Crockett’s campaign stems from recent political changes in Texas. A mid-decade Republican redistricting shifted her out of District 30, but analysts believe her strong fundraising ability and name recognition could secure her a path back to Congress. Moreover, her candidacy holds historical significance, as no Black woman has ever been elected to a statewide office in Texas.
Crockett’s entry into the race is likely to complicate strategies for both Talarico and Allred. Talarico, who has garnered significant attention and raised more than $6 million within a month of his campaign launch, positions himself as a charismatic leader ready to challenge Trump. Meanwhile, Allred’s previous Senate campaign against Ted Cruz has left him with a mix of support and skepticism from Democrats.
As the clock ticks toward the filing deadline, political analysts are closely watching how Crockett’s campaign will unfold and its implications for the Democratic Party in Texas. With her official announcement just hours away, the race is heating up, and candidates must adjust their strategies in response to her expected entry.
The stakes are high, and with the upcoming primaries, every second counts. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
