Texas Senate Democratic Primary Debate Highlights Campaign Style Differences

The first debate for the Texas Senate Democratic primary on Saturday featured US Representative Jasmine Crockett and state Representative James Talarico. The discussion primarily highlighted differences in their campaign styles and proposed approaches to securing a Republican-held seat, rather than significant policy divergences. No Democrat has won a statewide election in Texas in over three decades. The debate occurred less than six weeks before the state’s March 3 primaries, which also include a Republican contest featuring incumbent Senator John Cornyn, US Representative Wesley Hunt, and state Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Candidate Approaches to the Campaign

Crockett, 44, a former state representative and civil rights lawyer, has gained recognition through an outspoken style, often featured in viral social media moments. She stated her willingness to "do the edgy things" that political consultants might advise against, emphasizing a need to address public struggles.

Crockett asserted that the successful candidate for the US Senate "is going to have to be ready for real war."

Talarico, 36, a former teacher and Presbyterian seminarian, presented a more measured approach. He spoke about his faith and his intention to appeal to a broader political spectrum.

Talarico stated, "The real fight in this country is not left versus right. It’s top versus bottom," and advocated against the "same old politics of division."

Immigration and ICE

Both candidates criticized the Trump administration’s handling of immigration. Their statements were made hours after a border agent fatally shot an individual in Minneapolis.

Crockett described US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as a "rogue organization." When questioned about abolishing or defunding the agency, she stated a commitment to "clean house, whatever that looks like." She also said ICE should focus on enforcement rather than targeting US citizens or documented individuals.

Talarico accused agents of having "executed a man in broad daylight" and proposed that the "secret police force" should be dismantled and replaced with an agency focused on public safety. He suggested the southern border should be managed to welcome immigrants seeking the American dream, provide a pathway to citizenship, and prevent entry to those who pose harm.

During the debate, Senator Cornyn and Attorney General Paxton posted on social media, accusing the Democratic candidates of wanting to abolish ICE. Immigration and border issues are significant in Texas, which includes a 1,254-mile section of the U.S.-Mexico border, alongside substantial refugee and immigrant communities and a large presence of immigration-focused law enforcement.

Impeachment of Donald Trump

Crockett explicitly called for impeachment.

Crockett stated, "I think that there is more than enough to impeach Donald Trump," specifically citing the "unlawful use of the tariffs" as a clear basis.

Talarico did not explicitly call for impeachment but commented that the administration "has certainly committed impeachable offenses, particularly when it comes to using their public roles to enrich themselves." Both candidates have previously supported the impeachment of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.