Trump Backs Paxton as Talarico Leads Texas Senate Race

The Texas Senate race between Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico is drawing national attention, with one report describing the contest as close and another saying Talarico narrowly leads in polls. President Donald Trump has endorsed Paxton and repeatedly attacked Talarico, including questioning his campaign absence after Talarico said he had influenza; Vice President J.D. Vance and Rep. Brandon Gill have also criticized Talarico’s positions and past statements. Talarico’s campaign attributed his absence to illness, and he returned to public campaign events in October. Paxton also received an endorsement from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which has focused on his economic proposals. The coverage reflects sharp partisan efforts to define Talarico and Paxton as voters weigh the candidates ahead of the midterms.