James Talarico, a Texas state lawmaker and former middle-school teacher who has put his Christian faith at the forefront of his campaign, is one of two leading contenders in the Democratic primary for Senate in Texas on Tuesday. Here are five things to know about Mr. Talarico, 36, of Austin.

Betting markets now strongly favor the Democratic state representative, pricing in what traders see as a decisive win.

The numbers from early voting show 1.4 million voters cast ballots in the Democratic primary battle between U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, known for her viral clap-backs aimed at Republicans, and state Rep. James Talarico, a rising star courting moderates with a populist-minded message.

On Kalshi and Polymarket, Paxton is favored by a wide margin. In the Democratic race, Talarico has emerged as a favorite.

Crockett and Talarico face Democratic voters in a primary on March 3, following a month of mixed polling showing a virtual tie.

It may sound like James Talarico is getting ahead of himself when he talks about delivering an election night surprise in November, right here in Texas, where a Democratic senator has not been elected in his lifetime.

After months of speculation, Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett officially announced her run for Senate in December 2025, joining State Rep. James Talarico and former Congressman Colin Allred, who later dropped out of the race. Dr. Ahmed R. Hassan is also on the Democratic primary ballot.

James Talarico, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate, is embracing a compassionate campaign approach in a bare-knuckled political environment.