James Talarico, a Democratic hopeful for Texas’ U.S. Senate seat, has garnered a lineup of celebrity endorsements. Notable figures backing Talarico include billionaire Mark Cuban, science educator Bill Nye, and Don Henley, co-founder of Eagles. Talarico, an Austin state representative and former middle school teacher, aims to be the first Democrat elected to the Senate from Texas since 1988. This growing support has boosted Talarico’s fundraising efforts significantly, although it has also become a point of contention for Republicans, who have criticized Talarico as having views more aligned with California than Texas.
Newsweek reached out to the Talarico and Paxton campaigns for comment.
James Talarico Vs. Ken Paxton: Poll Overview
Talarico maintains a slim lead in the race as early voting spans from October 19 to October 30, leading up to the November 3 election. An independent survey showed his widest lead yet, with a New York Times/Siena College poll giving Talarico 51 percent to Paxton’s 45 percent. The survey covered 615 likely voters with a margin of error of 4.5 percentage points.
A Fox News poll conducted by Beacon Research and Shaw & Company Research reflected a tighter race, recording Talarico at 51 percent and Paxton at 49 percent among likely voters, which falls within a 3-point error margin. Concerns about Talarico’s liberal stance were noted by over half of the respondents, while 51 percent expressed worry over Paxton’s association with President Donald Trump.
Paxton’s campaign cited internal data that shows him leading with 48 percent to 45 percent, claiming improvements since early September. Since the May 26 Republican runoff, the race has been closely contested.
Celebrity Endorsements and Financial Support
Talarico has raised approximately $27 million in early 2026, marking a record-setting first-quarter fundraising for a Senate candidate during an election year. Despite contributions from small donors driving a large share, notable celebrities have also contributed, ranging from $25 to $3,500.
Mark Cuban, who spoke positively about Talarico on the Pivot podcast, appeared alongside him at a podcast taping in Fort Worth. Cuban praises Talarico’s honesty but stops short of issuing a formal endorsement.
Bill Nye joined The Teachers for Talarico coalition, highlighting Talarico’s background as a former teacher in San Antonio. Promo campaigns on social media featured Nye urging support for Talarico.
The Chicks endorsed Talarico via Instagram, wearing “Talafreako” T-shirts—a play on Paxton’s derogatory label of Talarico—as part of the campaign’s merchandising strategy.
Don Henley from the Eagles and Damon Lindelof, co-creator of Lost, have contributed financially to Talarico’s campaign. The fundraising events have attracted other entertainment sector donors including Nancy Wilson of Heart and Jackson Browne, demonstrating widespread celebrity support.
Significance of the Texas Senate Race
With Republicans holding a 53-47 Senate majority, Democrats must retain existing seats and flip four Republican-held seats to gain control. Although Texas was not initially viewed as competitive, Paxton’s primary victory, fueled by Trump support amidst warnings regarding his legal history, has shifted the dynamic.
Talarico’s campaign has gained momentum, activating bipartisan interest with initiatives such as the ‘Republicans for Talarico’ coalition. Despite challenges, including a lack of endorsement from previous Democratic rival Jasmine Crockett, Talarico’s efforts represent a potentially historic shift.
Texas last elected a Democratic Senator in 1988, with Lloyd Bentsen, marking over 30 years without a Democratic win. Beto O’Rourke’s narrow defeat against Senator Ted Cruz in 2018 highlights the potential for Talarico to end this drought and contribute to the Democrats’ bid to regain the Senate.