News

Affordability Emerges as Top Issue in Texas Senate Race

Jamie Jackson
July 28, 2026

Reading Time: < 1 minute

DALLAS (AURN News) — The Texas Senate race continues to make national headlines and draw national attention.

The matchup between Democrat James Talarico and Republican Ken Paxton remains close, but a new poll shows Talarico gaining ground.

Texas Public Opinion Research found that Talarico now leads Paxton 45% to 40%. The polling firm said that marks a 2-point increase from May.

The polling firm also found that Talarico remains the top choice among moderates, leading by 34 percentage points, and leads independents by 20 percentage points.

Affordability is the top concern for Lone Star State voters, with 44% saying their wallet is their main focus. The poll also found Texans trust Talarico more than Paxton when it comes to improving their financial situation.

The news comes as the Talarico campaign announced it will spend $25 million to court Black voters.

Click play to listen to the AURN News report from Jamie Jackson:

Jamie Jackson is an Emmy-nominated television and radio broadcaster who has served American Urban Radio Networks since 2015. He previously covered the Obama and Trump administrations as a White House Correspondent and Pool Reporter for AURN News. Jamie hosted a national PBS television special in 2023 and over the years has worked as a TV news anchor and local NPR host for stations across the country. His work has been honored by numerous organizations, including the NAACP and the Virginia Farm Bureau.