Can James Talarico Do Better than Beto?
With his scandalized general election opponent now set, the newest Texas Democrat phenom begins his barnstorming of the state.
Beto O'Rourke
Can Beto O’Rourke Harness the Elusive Power of the College Student Vote?
Many have tried; few have succeeded. But the latest political phenom thinks he’ll be more effective at courting young voters.
Ted Cruz’s Fear Factory
Fear, revanchism and chauvinistic Texas tropes: Cruz’s re-election strategy might not be pretty, but that’s not the point.
Cruz’s Reaction to ‘New Jim Crow’ Comments Ignores the Racist Roots of Mass Incarceration
O’Rourke talks racial disparities in the justice system; Cruz goes nuclear and embraces the politics of policing, revealing an aversion to confronting our dark past.
Beto and Ted’s Competing Realities Collide for the First Time
As the first Senate debate showed, this race is quickly becoming defined by the politics of fear and resentment.
Beto’s Drawing Big Crowds in Small Towns. But What’s His Plan for Rural Texas?
Focusing on rural access to health care, high-speed internet and immigrant farm labor, O’Rourke’s rural platform looks to be cogent and cohesive, if still a little skinny.
Beto Bets on the Border
Will showing up with a high-minded call for border solidarity translate to the historic levels of Latino turnout that O’Rourke needs?
On Gun Safety, Democrats are Steeled
Texas Democrats are becoming more sure-footed in their call for gun reform legislation.
Tom Steyer’s Impeachment Show Comes to Texas
The liberal California billionaire is spending tens of millions in an effort to impeach Trump. Is it starting to gain momentum?
Is the Realm of Possibility Expanding for Texas Democrats Running for Congress?
From the swingiest seat to one of the most conservative, Democratic congressional challengers are raising big money — and big questions about the boundaries of a potential blue wave.