With early voting days away, Talarico targeted rising costs and touted record fundraising as Paxton prepares to launch a statewide bus tour.

SAN MARCOS, Texas — With early voting just days away, the candidates in Texas’ high-profile U.S. Senate race are making their final push to reach voters.

Democratic State Rep. James Talarico rallied supporters at CFPO Fields in San Marcos on Thursday night, focusing on the rising cost of living, education funding and the need for political change in Texas.



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Meanwhile, his Republican opponent, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, is preparing to kick off an 18-day statewide bus tour Saturday in Rockwall.


Talarico focuses on affordability and education

During Thursday’s rally, Talarico pointed to the rising costs of groceries, gas and healthcare, arguing that Texas families are struggling to afford everyday necessities.

He also called for lower property taxes and higher teacher pay.

Drawing on his experience as a former public school teacher, Talarico described the impact of education funding cuts on Texas classrooms and said his experience helped inspire him to pursue public office.

Talarico also criticized Paxton, accusing him of putting his own interests and those of wealthy donors ahead of working Texans.

The rally came after Talarico’s campaign reported raising $64 million between July 1 and Sept. 30. The campaign described the total as a record for a U.S. Senate candidate during the third quarter of an election year.

Talarico told supporters he believes the election could mark a turning point in Texas politics.

“On Nov. 3, we are going to do something extraordinary. We are going to do something historic,” Talarico said. “We are going to end 30 years of one party rule in this state.”


Paxton prepares for statewide bus tour

Paxton is preparing to launch his 18-day “Come and Take It” bus tour Saturday, Oct. 17, in Rockwall.

His campaign says the tour will include more than 30 stops across Texas as Election Day approaches.

In a statement to KVUE, Paxton’s campaign criticized Talarico’s time away from the campaign trail and attacked several of his policy positions.

“James Talarico has spent an entire month hiding from voters without a single rally since September 16, but we understand why. It’s hard to sell hardworking Texans on boys in girls’ sports, eliminating oil and gas, and defunding the police. While Talarico was off the trail, the Attorney General never stopped fighting for Texans. Everyone knows James Talarico will raise your taxes, and no amount of time off the campaign trail or flip-flopping will change that. This weekend, the Attorney General will begin his ‘Come and Take It Tour,’ making more than 30 stops to bring his message to voters.”


Voters emphasize importance of November election

Among those attending Thursday’s rally were voters who said they wanted to encourage greater participation in the upcoming election.

Devin Davis, who lives in Frisco, said she attended in hopes of inspiring more young people to get involved.

“It’s important for me to be out here tonight, because I just want to encourage more young people to get up there and vote,” Davis said.

Flora Oliver, who lives in Nacogdoches, said Talarico’s message reflects values she learned growing up.

“My mom has always instilled in me to be really passionate in my views and to always stand up for everyone, and I think Talarico really embodies that for the Texas people right now,” Oliver said.

For San Marcos resident Dick McBride, the election carries particular significance.

“This election cycle is the most important thing in my life,” McBride said.


Early voting begins Oct. 19

Talarico’s rally comes just days before early voting begins in Texas on Monday, Oct. 19.

Early voting runs through Friday, Oct. 30, ahead of Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Voters can find information about registration, polling locations, important election dates and races on the ballot in KVUE’s voter guide.