Democratic candidate for US Senate James Talarico speaks during a campaign rally as part of his “New American Dream Tour” in Pasadena, Texas, on August 9, 2026. Talarico, a 37-year-old former Presbyterian seminarian and middle school teacher, is aimi
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Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico has hired a staff member from the office of the senator he’s hoping to replace in November.
The campaign announced Jacob Smith would be joining as Talarico’s deputy political director. Smith most recently served as Sen. John Cornyn’s deputy legislative director.
What they’re saying:
“I’ve worked for Republicans like Senator Cornyn my entire career, but this year I’m proud to be joining James Talarico’s campaign. Instead of playing partisan politics, Talarico speaks to the needs of everyday people who, day in and day out, work too hard for too little,” Smith said.
Talarico is facing off against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the Senate seat after Paxton defeated Cornyn in the primary election.
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“Ken Paxton is the most corrupt, self-dealing politician in Texas who would sell out working people’s futures to the highest contributor just to hold onto power. I’m encouraging all my fellow Republicans who know Ken Paxton is unfit to serve in the Senate to finally hold him accountable at the ballot box,” Smith said.
Related
New Texas polls show a tight Senate race between Talarico and Paxton
Two recent polls show Democrat James Talarico narrowly leading Republican Ken Paxton in the U.S. Senate race.
Polls show Talarico and Paxton locked in a tight contest as November draws closer.
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