Democratic Senate Hopes Rise in Texas and Kansas

Democrats are increasingly looking to Republican-leaning states including Texas and Kansas as possible routes to a Senate majority in the 2026 midterm elections. The Cook Political Report has described the fight for control of the chamber as a “true toss up” and moved three races toward Democrats, while Politico reported that Senate Democrats’ main super PAC is actively considering spending in Kansas.

In Texas, Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico is making his Christian faith a central part of his campaign. Talarico, a state representative, former middle school teacher and seminary student, recently addressed congregants at Brentwood Baptist Church in Houston, presenting biblical teachings as a framework for discussing health care, economic policy and the country’s political divisions.

NPR reported that Talarico is among several Democratic congressional candidates emphasizing religion this cycle. The group includes ordained clergy and ministerial students competing in Texas, Kansas and Iowa. Their campaigns seek to connect Democratic policy positions on health care, veterans, immigration and economic opportunity with Christian teachings.

Republicans have sharply attacked that rhetoric. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick accused Talarico of blasphemy and said he was “campaigning against God.” Talarico responded that denying health coverage to finance tax cuts for billionaires was “the real blasphemy.”