The black campaign bus with “Talarico for Texas” emblazoned on its side stopped at Memo’s Restaurant in Eagle Pass near the U.S.-Mexico border. Bibi Valdez, intrigued, approached the bus, her phone camera ready, narrating how local political views shifted two years ago. “Many people, especially Hispanics, switched to Republican,” she remarked as security arranged space for James Talarico, the Democratic U.S. Senate candidate. “I just don’t see what the logic was.”
Talarico aims to become the first Democrat to win a statewide election in Texas since 1994. His visit to Memo’s Restaurant was one stop on his tour along the border, seeking support in areas that drew national attention after the 2024 elections. Areas once staunchly Democratic shifted to vote for Republican President Donald Trump, some significantly. Residents and officials commonly cite the rise in border crossings and living costs as reasons. Although border crossings have decreased since 2024, the cost of living remains high.
Talarico emphasizes economic issues, criticizing Republican Ken Paxton, the Texas attorney general, as he campaigns. Winning back Hispanic voters who shifted to the GOP could be crucial for Talarico and may influence whether Democrats control the Senate.
“They thought a better economy, but it wasn’t,” Valdez reflected, posing for a photo with Talarico.
Talarico greeted supporters outside Memo’s Restaurant, which was crowded with people eager to see him. Inside, below buzzing fans, the candidate addressed the crowd, diverging from typical border discussions to focus on economy and fairness.
“Many politicians come to the border to demonize and weaponize it,” Talarico said. “We’re doing the opposite. We highlight our border communities’ beauty.” He seldom referenced the border thereafter, steering towards how the economy favors “mega donors,” accusing Paxton of serving wealthy interests.
Drawing parallels to prior Democratic hopefuls, Talarico represents the latest effort to secure Democratic victory in a traditionally Republican stronghold. Although Beto O’Rourke followed a similar path in 2018 without success, there’s cautious optimism within the party. Since 2024, Hispanic approval of Trump has waned according to AP-NORC polling, with only 29% approving of his presidency in a recent poll.
For border communities like those along the Rio Grande, immigration remains tangible, not abstract. Hector Flores, 72, sitting with friends in Maverick County, recalls the humanitarian impact of migration policy shifts vividly. Though costs remain a pressing issue, Flores remains steadfast in his political stance, supporting tough immigration enforcement.
“It was a nightmare because of him. Now, you don’t see no immigrants,” Flores said, indicating a certainty in his electoral choices.
Though supporters like Mike Garcia, 76, have mixed feelings, they express concerns over personal economic strains and ICE practices. Flores’s loyalty to the Republican vote remains unhindered, even amid price hikes and political controversies.
Republican Ken Paxton has spotlighted immigration enforcement throughout his campaign, boasting lawsuits against the Biden administration and declaring commitment to border security. Meanwhile, Talarico, during his own border tour, confirmed investments in border technology and staffing enhancements to bolster immigration enforcement.
“The Biden administration left border communities disillusioned, opening them to Republican promises,” Talarico explained. “However, many promises remain unfulfilled.”
Paxton has kept his focus on personal attacks against Talarico, emphasizing cultural differences and appealing to conservative values. Meanwhile, Talarico continues to champion economic fairness and systemic change, working to sway voters back.