The Texas Democratic Senate primary has erupted into a public feud, with accusations and counterclaims flying just weeks before the crucial March 3 vote.
The race to challenge Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) in November has turned contentious between state Rep. James Talarico (D) and Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX).
This week, former Rep. Colin Allred (D-TX) criticized Talarico over alleged remarks calling Allred a “mediocre Black man,” though Talarico insists his comments were about campaign strategy, not personal character. With recent polls showing a tightening race, the infighting has raised concerns among some Democrats about losing focus ahead of the general election.
Many on the left are questioning whether this internal squabble will hand an advantage to the Republican incumbent. Let’s be frank: when Democrats bicker over identity politics and social media spats, they play right into the hands of a seasoned operator like Cornyn. This primary mess is a distraction from the real fight.
The primary contest, already heating up in recent weeks, saw a surprising turn with a TikTok user alleging last month that Talarico made disparaging remarks about Allred while praising Crockett as a formidable figure, according to The Hill. Talarico swiftly denied the personal jab, clarifying his critique was aimed at campaign tactics. But the damage was done, and Allred’s sharp response—endorsing Crockett—poured fuel on the fire.
Crockett, a civil rights attorney and current House member, issued a statement backing Allred without naming Talarico, lamenting the timing at the start of Black History Month. This kind of rhetoric, fixating on symbolic dates rather than policy substance, is exactly why many voters grow weary of progressive posturing. If Democrats want to win, they’d better focus on issues, not grievances.
Polling underscores the stakes of this spat, with an early January survey showing Talarico ahead by 9 points, while a more recent poll had Crockett at 38% and Talarico at 37%. With 21% still undecided, every misstep matters. Cornyn, meanwhile, leads both in hypothetical matchups by narrow margins, a reminder that unity is the only path to victory.
The discourse around “electability” has become a sticking point, with some suggesting it’s a veiled jab at Crockett’s viability as a Black woman candidate. On “The View” this week, co-host Sunny Hostin pushed this narrative, implying skepticism about statewide wins for candidates like Crockett. This obsession with identity over merit is a tired trope that distracts from real voter concerns.
Talarico, for his part, publicly called Crockett a “friend” and expressed “deep love and respect for her” during the same appearance. That’s a nice gesture, but actions speak louder than platitudes, and the primary’s tone—despite a cordial first debate just days ago—has veered into the mud with talk of attack ads from Crockett’s camp. Voters deserve a contest of ideas, not personal barbs.
Crockett’s own record isn’t without controversy, from viral online exchanges to sharp quips about Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and a Republican colleague. While her fiery style energizes some, it risks alienating the broader electorate needed to flip a Senate seat. Conservatives watching this unfold can only hope Democrats keep doubling down on divisive antics.
Democratic strategists are split on the fallout, with some like Caitlin Legacki doubting this February dust-up will sway November voters. Others, like Texas consultant Joel Montfort, warn, “We’re taking our eye off the ball,” pointing to the danger of losing sight of the ultimate goal. It’s a valid concern, but one wonders if the left ever learns this lesson.
Monique Alcala, a former Texas Democratic Party executive, called Talarico’s alleged remarks “in poor taste,” urging focus on unity over petty influencer-driven drama. Her point hits home: social media shouldn’t dictate a Senate race. Yet, Democrats seem addicted to these superficial battles.
The timing couldn’t be worse, as Democrats recently flipped a Trump-won state Senate seat, boosting optimism for November. Squandering that momentum on internal fights is political malpractice. Republicans, including a strong contender like Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, must be grinning at this self-inflicted wound.
Strategist Matt Angle argues a competitive primary can forge a tougher candidate, capable of both taking and throwing punches over the coming weeks. That’s true in theory, but only if the punches are aimed at policy differences, not personal slights. Otherwise, it’s just a sideshow for Cornyn to exploit.
As the March 3 primary looms, the risk is clear: a bruised nominee limping into the general election, weighed down by primary baggage. Conservatives know that a divided opposition is a gift, and Cornyn—a proven winner—won’t hesitate to capitalize. Texas voters, tired of woke infighting, may just send a resounding message come November.
