The Texas Democratic Party has announced a historic milestone for the upcoming 2026 elections by securing candidates for every state and federal position on the Texas ballot. This marks the first time in modern Texas history that either major political party has achieved a complete slate of candidates. The initiative is part of a robust recruitment campaign led by prominent Texas Democratic entities, including the Texas Majority PAC and influential politicians such as former U.S. Rep. Beto O’Rourke and ex-State Sen. Wendy Davis.
Full Candidate Slate for 2026 Elections
A total of 104 candidates have been recruited to contest every congressional, state House, and state Senate seat. In addition, the party has ensured candidates for statewide judicial positions and the State Board of Education. This comprehensive strategy aims to challenge Republican dominance in Texas, particularly as the party seeks to reflect on their performance and identify areas for potential gains.
Leadership and Strategy
- Texas Democratic Party Chair: Kendall Scudder
- Director of Texas Majority PAC: Katherine Fischer
Scudder emphasized that Republicans should not expect an easy path to maintaining their positions. “No Republican gets a free ride in Texas,” he declared. The Democratic strategy focuses on generating increased voter turnout and engagement, particularly in traditionally Republican strongholds.
Current Political Landscape in Texas
- Republican Hold: 25 out of 38 congressional districts
- Texas House: 88 out of 150 seats held by Republicans
- Texas Senate: 18 to 11 majority for Republicans
- Last Democratic win of a statewide office: 1994
Despite ongoing challenges, such as historically low Democratic representation in rural areas, this ambitious campaign aims to change the narrative. Democrats have previously faced difficulties competing in regions where they have not fielded candidates, which has hindered their outreach efforts.
Recruitment and Grassroots Efforts
The recruitment drive involved extensive outreach efforts, including sending 2.3 million text messages and making over 100,000 calls. This grassroots initiative was vital in uncovering candidates who resonate with average Texans. The final selections include individuals from diverse backgrounds, with many being first-time candidates.
Profiles of First-Time Candidates
- Diana Loya: An educator challenging the incumbent in House District 87, aiming to address urgent local educational issues.
- Zack Dunn: A family violence prosecutor targeting House District 121, which is seen as a key opportunity for Democrats.
- Orlando Lopez: A construction manager running in House District 33, motivated to represent the interests of immigrants and advocate for public schools.
These candidates reflect the overarching objective of Texas Democrats to present relatable, community-oriented leaders in every district. They aim to engage voters and bridge the gap in representation experienced by their party in previous elections.
Support and Strategy Moving Forward
The Texas Majority PAC plans to invest about $1 million in supporting candidates for the upcoming elections. This includes providing assistance with campaign essentials, raising funds, and ensuring compliance throughout the election process. With these resources, the party aims to bolster its mission to enhance Democratic presence across Texas.
As the 2026 elections approach, Texas Democrats are focused on fostering a competitive landscape. With candidates in every race, the party hopes to energize voters and challenge the prevailing Republican hold on state and national offices. The preparation and ambitious recruitment strategy signify a proactive approach toward reshaping Texas’s political future.
