Cornyn and Talarico Lead Senate Fundraising Race as Texas Contest Heats Up

Texas’ 2026 U.S. Senate race is already taking shape, and early fundraising totals show two candidates leading the pack. Incumbent Sen. John Cornyn, a longtime Republican figure in the state, and Democratic state Rep. James Talarico have emerged as the top fundraisers in a contest that will draw significant attention from voters in Houston and across Texas.

Both campaigns reported strong financial starts, according to recent filings covered by Axios. Cornyn, who has held the Senate seat since 2002, continues to benefit from national Republican fundraising networks. Meanwhile, Talarico’s early performance demonstrates growing Democratic interest in challenging long-standing GOP leadership in Texas.

Why the Early Numbers Matter

Fundraising strength is often an early indicator of campaign momentum. A well-funded operation enables candidates to build staff, shape their messaging, and reach voters in large metro areas such as Houston. With Texas’ rapidly shifting population and evolving political landscape, both parties see this Senate race as an opportunity to test long-term strategies.

For Houston residents, the outcome could influence future federal policies tied to energy, port activity, transportation, and flood mitigation—key issues often driven by the state’s senior senators. As campaigns gain momentum, voters can expect more candidate visits to Houston and targeted outreach across the region.

What’s Next

Both Cornyn and Talarico are expected to expand their operations as the field develops. More candidates may still enter the race, but early numbers position these two as the strongest contenders so far. Houston voters should anticipate increased advertising, town halls, and policy proposals as campaigns work to secure statewide support.

This article is a summary of reporting by Axios. Read the full story here.