Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico has intensified his criticism of President Donald Trump, billionaire Elon Musk and Republican opponent Ken Paxton ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Houston, Talarico described the contest as a battle between an underdog political movement and powerful figures with significant financial and political influence.
The Austin state representative accused Musk of using his wealth to influence the Texas Senate race and help Paxton secure a seat in Washington. He also questioned Trump’s support for the Republican candidate and renewed his criticism of Paxton’s legal history.
The remarks come as Texas prepares for one of the most closely watched Senate contests of the 2026 midterm election cycle.
James Talarico Accuses Elon Musk of Trying to Influence Texas Senate Race
Musk’s financial involvement in the Texas Senate contest has become a central issue in Talarico’s campaign.
The Tesla and SpaceX chief executive has contributed substantial amounts to Republican-aligned political organizations supporting Paxton. Campaign finance disclosures reported by The Texas Tribune show that Musk contributed $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund in September.
The money helped finance political spending supporting Paxton, including advertising through groups aligned with Republican Senate interests.
Talarico has repeatedly criticized the spending, arguing that wealthy donors should not have disproportionate influence over elections.
At the Houston rally, he presented his campaign as a grassroots effort supported by ordinary voters rather than billionaire donors. He also accused Musk of attempting to secure a personally favorable voice in the US Senate.
Musk’s political spending has become a major talking point in the contest, particularly as outside groups have invested heavily in advertisements targeting both candidates.
Talarico Calls Ken Paxton a Corrupt Politician
Talarico also directed sharp criticism toward Paxton, Texas’ Republican attorney general and the GOP nominee in the Senate race.
During the rally, the Democratic candidate questioned Paxton’s record and referred to his legal controversies. He contrasted his own legislative experience with Paxton’s history of legal problems.
Talarico said, “I have a legislative record. Ken Paxton has a criminal record.”
The remark was part of his broader argument that voters should examine the Republican candidate’s public record before deciding who should represent Texas in the Senate.
Paxton has faced several legal and ethical controversies during his time as attorney general. He was impeached by the Republican-controlled Texas House in 2023 over allegations of misconduct but was acquitted by the state Senate.
He also previously faced securities-fraud charges, which were dismissed in 2024 after he agreed to community service and restitution under a deferred prosecution agreement.
Paxton has rejected accusations of wrongdoing and has continued his political career.
Donald Trump’s Support Adds National Attention to Texas Senate Race
Trump’s involvement has turned the Texas contest into a major national political battle.
The president has publicly backed Paxton and appeared at campaign events to encourage Republican support. His involvement reflects the importance Republicans place on retaining the Senate seat in a traditionally conservative state.
Trump has also criticized Talarico, portraying the Democratic candidate as too liberal for Texas voters.
Republican-aligned political organizations have committed substantial financial resources to Paxton’s campaign. Trump’s MAGA Inc. super PAC announced a $10 million advertising effort supporting the Republican candidate in September.
Musk’s contributions have added another major financial dimension to the contest, with outside spending reaching hundreds of millions of dollars.
Why the Texas Senate Election Is Drawing National Attention
Texas has remained a Republican stronghold in statewide elections for more than three decades. However, the 2026 Senate contest has attracted unusual attention because of its competitive nature and the amount of money invested by both political sides.
Talarico has built his campaign around issues including affordability, political accountability and the influence of wealthy donors.
Paxton, meanwhile, has emphasized conservative policies and portrayed Talarico as out of step with Texas voters.
The race has also become one of the most expensive Senate contests of the 2026 election cycle. According to Reuters, advertising spending has exceeded $500 million, highlighting the national importance both parties have placed on the outcome.
With Election Day approaching on November 3, both campaigns are focusing on voter turnout and their final appeals across the state.
The result could have implications beyond Texas, potentially affecting the balance of power in the US Senate and the direction of national politics.
