The 2026 primary season in the U.S. began with significant races in Texas, where incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn faces a runoff against Trumpist Attorney General Ken Paxton. The results indicate a potential shift in voter sentiment favoring Democrats, who aim to reclaim the House and possibly the Senate. Democratic candidate James Talarico, who won his primary, is positioning himself to appeal to moderate voters and has a chance to win the Senate seat, especially if Paxton defeats Cornyn. The Texas Senate primary has become the most expensive in U.S. history, with significant spending on both sides.