Trump rallies in Lubbock as Talarico leads Paxton in Texas Senate race

President Donald Trump and Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico held separate rallies in Lubbock, Texas, on Tuesday as the 2026 midterm elections approach. The dueling events highlighted the competitive political landscape in West Texas, a region that has traditionally served as a Republican stronghold.

Talarico has maintained a small but steady lead over Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in recent public opinion polls. Democratic candidates, including gubernatorial contender Gina Hinojosa, have seen increased support driven by voter concerns over the cost of living, rural data center construction, and school funding.

During his speech, Trump urged voters to turn out in large numbers, claiming that Democrats would repeal the Second Amendment and increase border crossings. He referred to Talarico as "Talafreako" and emphasized the importance of retaining Republican control of the state. Local Republican leaders described the rally as a crucial effort to energize the base in deep red districts.

Read the full story at texastribune.org.