[Photo: jamestalarico.com]
On Saturday, the State Tejano Democrats – the largest Hispanic Democratic organization in the State of Texas – voted for James Talarico for U.S. Senate in their 2026 Straw Poll. The unofficial vote, which asked members to select their picks for national and statewide races, represents a continuation of the powerful partnership between the campaign and the Tejano Democrats, from the Rio Grande Valley to the organization’s headquarters in Austin and beyond.
“James Talarico has fought for la cultura y el orgullo of Tejanos his entire career,” said Cinia Montoya, President of the Coastal Bend Tejano Democrats. “We need to turn the page on 30 years of one-party rule that has left our social services gutted and our government mismanaged. We need a Senator who will get Texas back on track for our families — someone who funds our schools, lowers health care costs, and stands for justice over fear. James Talarico is that leader — he delivers.”
“I’m honored to have the support of so many Tejano Democrats in this straw poll,” said James Talarico. “I will continue to stand with these community leaders as they fight for Tejanos across our state.”
This result, combined with publicly available polling showing Talarico in the lead among Latino voters despite a significant name ID disadvantage, offers a glimpse into the potential outcome of the 2026 election.
The Tejano Democrats represent Hispanics in all activities of the Democratic Party. Talarico spoke at their annual convention in San Antonio on Friday, where he emphasized his commitment to taking back Texas.
