In the heart of Republican-dominated Lubbock, President Donald Trump and Democrat James Talarico held rallies that attracted significant crowds. Reports and photos from the events show thousands attending each rally.
Talarico, a State Representative, announced via social media that 4,000 people came to his rally at the Fiesta Center. This gathering was held in support of his run for office against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican backed by President Trump across town.
An image shared by Talarico displayed a full venue, accompanied by his statement: “Lubbock County voted for President Trump by 40 points. Tonight 4,000 people showed up at our rally. Texans are ready for change.” It’s unclear if this count includes those unable to enter due to space constraints. The Fiesta Center’s ballroom can accommodate 2,600 people, although Hopes were to expand it to 3,000, according to KAMC reporter Jen Phillips. The line for the event reportedly extended over several city blocks, as noted by The Texas Tribune.
Meanwhile, Trump and Paxton’s rally at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center also drew a large crowd. A reporter from The Amarillo Tribune estimated around 4,000 attendees filled the arena. The center’s exhibit hall can hold a maximum of 4,914 people.
News outlets have reached out to both the Talarico and Paxton campaigns for comments on the turnout figures.
Though estimates suggest that Trump’s rally may have gathered a slightly larger crowd, Talarico’s turnout was impressive given Lubbock County’s historical support for Republican candidates. Trump won the county by a 40-point margin in 2024. Lubbock County has not favored a Democratic presidential candidate since 1964.
The details of this story are developing, with more updates anticipated.