Democrat James Talarico has won the United States Senate race in Texas, delivering a historic victory that breaks the Republican Party’s long-standing hold on the state’s Senate representation. His win, alongside Gina Hinojosa’s victory in the governor’s race, marks an extraordinary election night for Texas Democrats.

Talarico defeated Republican candidate Ken Paxton, the state’s attorney general, in the November 3 midterm elections. He becomes the first Democrat elected to the U.S. Senate from Texas since 1988, when Lloyd Bentsen won re-election. The Associated Press called the race for Talarico, while Texas Governor Greg Abbott conceded defeat to Hinojosa. Texas Tribune+2

Speaking to supporters in Austin, Talarico described the result as a victory for ordinary Texans over wealthy donors and powerful political interests. He said the campaign had demonstrated that grassroots support could overcome the influence of major financial contributors.

The Senate contest drew national attention after President Donald Trump intervened in the Republican primary by endorsing Paxton over incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Paxton went on to secure the Republican nomination, setting up a closely watched general election against Talarico.

The campaign also attracted significant outside spending. Billionaire Elon Musk was among the major financial backers supporting Paxton, according to the report. Musk’s business interests in Texas and his role in the Trump administration’s cost-cutting initiatives have also made him a prominent figure in national political debates.

Talarico, a 37-year-old state representative and former teacher, campaigned on issues including affordability, corruption and the influence of wealthy donors. His victory gives Democrats a major breakthrough in a state where Republicans have dominated federal and statewide elections for decades. CBS News+2

Hinojosa defeats Abbott in historic governor’s race

Democrats also secured a major victory in the Texas governor’s race, where state Representative Gina Hinojosa defeated Republican incumbent Greg Abbott. Hinojosa will become the first Latina governor in Texas history and the first Democrat to hold the office since Ann Richards left in 1995. Abbott conceded the race after serving three terms. AP News+2

Hinojosa’s campaign focused on affordability, public services and opposition to the state’s hardline immigration policies. Her victory was widely viewed as a setback for the Republican leadership in Texas, particularly after Abbott’s close cooperation with the Trump administration on immigration enforcement.

Campaign representatives said Latino voters played an important role in the result, arguing that concerns about immigration enforcement and the impact of federal policies on families helped energize the electorate.

Texas has long been a Republican stronghold, with conservative leaders shaping policies on immigration, abortion, education and social welfare. Republicans have pointed to economic growth, tax reductions and fewer regulations as achievements of their leadership. Critics, however, argue that the benefits have not been shared equally and that many working- and middle-income households continue to face rising living costs.

The victories by Talarico and Hinojosa could reshape the state’s political direction and influence national debates over immigration, economic policy and the balance of power in Washington. The results also mark a significant moment for Democrats seeking to expand their reach beyond traditional strongholds.