The concept of a Democratic resurgence in Texas, often referred to as ‘Blexas’, is a hot topic among Democrats. With the current polling between Democratic state Representative James Talarico and Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton being neck-and-neck, the possibility has generated significant interest this midterm cycle. Historically, Texas was a Democratic bastion, producing figures such as President Lyndon B. Johnson and Speaker Sam Rayburn. However, since voting for Reagan in 1980, the state has leaned Republican. Democrats have not won statewide since 1994. The image of the gun-toting, oil-loving Texas Republican remains influential.

Democrats see a win in Texas as a crucial victory against the Republican stronghold. Efforts and resources poured into the state in 2018, 2022, and 2024 resulted in defeats. Leaders of the Texas Democratic Party argue that the focus has often been on top-of-the-ticket races, without building the necessary political infrastructure and down-ticket energy for statewide success. This has changed recently. ‘For the first time since ’72, we’ve recruited a Democrat to run for every state and federal office,’ says state party Chair Kendall Scudder.

‘This year, we have our first coordinated campaign since ’82, where all the candidates are integrated,’ Scudder states. ‘This means that by the next election cycle, we’ll have a better infrastructure to work from.’

From states like Florida to Michigan, Democrats have shown that a well-organized base can counteract vast monetary investments. Talarico currently surpasses Paxton, who faces legal and ethical controversies, in fundraising. However, Republicans are aware that losing Texas could jeopardize their chances of maintaining national power.

The Importance of Infrastructure

Kendall Scudder, who grew up in East Texas surrounded by Democrats, is rooted in ‘New Deal’ Democratic ideology. In 2018, he ran for state office with a message appealing to workers. Though he gained 41% of the vote, it highlighted the challenges of running without adequate political infrastructure. A charismatic candidate at the top of the ticket can engage only certain voters. Full engagement requires candidates at all levels. In many Texas regions since 1972, Democrats have lacked local candidates, making statewide victories elusive.

The 2018 campaign by former Congressman Beto O’Rourke demonstrated the potential for Democratic success in Texas. O’Rourke raised $80 million and came close to beating Senator Ted Cruz. However, the local political infrastructure necessary for long-term success was not fully in place. He realized significant gaps in infrastructure and founded the organizing group Powered by People to address them.

Despite raising over $67 million in a challenging election year, O’Rourke lost to Governor Greg Abbott in 2022 by a wide margin. Similarly, Colin Allred’s attempt to unseat Cruz in 2024 ended in defeat despite substantial fundraising. During these years, the Texas Democratic Party was led by Gilberto Hinojosa, under whose tenure the party incurred debt and infrastructure challenges.

Developing a Cohesive Strategy

Scudder became state party chair in 2025, inheriting a party in financial distress but focused on expansion. The party is now debt-free, with offices in multiple cities, enhancing accessibility and support statewide.

Part of the reinvigorated strategy involves a $30 million coordinated effort called ‘Texas Together’, drawing on entities like the Texas Democratic Party, O’Rourke’s Powered by People, and Texas Majority PAC. Led by Katherine Fischer, Texas Majority PAC aims to address previous shortfalls in political infrastructure. Fischer’s experience organizing O’Rourke campaigns made her aware of these challenges. Her role has been pivotal in recruiting candidates and ensuring campaign resources are available.

The PAC has facilitated fair pricing for campaign services and mobilized paid and grassroots organizing efforts, aiming to provide a comprehensive infrastructure for Democratic candidates.

Adapting National Strategies

The Texas strategy echoes national Democratic efforts to support state parties. Under Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin, the DNC invests heavily in state parties, benefiting states regardless of political alignment. Despite some criticism, the initiative provides vital support for red state Democrats.

Jane Kleeb, leader of the Association of State Democratic Committees, backs the approach, highlighting the absence of infrastructure in many red states before the program. The consistent support enables better voter engagement, candidate recruitment, and campaign success.

Strong candidates still need robust infrastructure to win. While Blexas remains a goal, changes since 2018 better position candidates like Talarico. ‘Candidates must focus on their campaigns and issues,’ Kleeb explains. ‘The party provides necessary infrastructure, enhancing chances of success.’