Colin Allred has exited the race for the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate. Instead, he will pursue a congressional seat in Texas’ newly established 33rd District. Allred previously served as a congressman and was the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in 2024, where he was defeated by Senator Ted Cruz.
Allred’s Shift to the 33rd Congressional District
This decision came on the final day for candidates to file for Texas’ 2026 primaries. Allred cited a desire to unify the Democratic Party ahead of the critical election against likely Republican opponents.
Political Landscape and Challenges
As Allred pivots to the 33rd District, he will face significant competition. Currently, the district is represented by U.S. Rep. Marc Veasey. However, new district lines, approved by the U.S. Supreme Court, have altered its demographics. The new boundaries have removed Veasey’s political base in Fort Worth, making the district one of the few viable options left for Democrats in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
- Allred aims to capture a district that includes around one-third of the constituents from his previous congressional seat.
- He has committed to addressing local issues, including securing $135 million in federal funding for public services.
Competition in the 33rd District
Allred will have to contend with his successor, Rep. Julie Johnson, who has held her congressional seat since January. Johnson previously won a competitive race to replace Allred when he opted for the Senate.
The new map aligns various Democratic areas into the 33rd District, creating a competitive environment. Allred acknowledges the challenges posed by party primaries but stresses the importance of a united front against Republican candidates.
Impact of Allred’s Decision
His exit from the Senate race reduces the risk of a divisive primary, allowing the Democratic nominee to focus resources on the general election. Furthermore, Allred’s decision reflects ongoing concerns among Texas Democrats about the implications of a fragmented primary race.
As the political landscape evolves, Allred’s transition to the 33rd Congressional District highlights strategic choices in the Texas political arena, aiming to maximize Democratic chances in future elections.
