JOURDANTON, Texas — In a highly competitive and closely monitored Senate race, Republican Senator Ted Cruz and Democratic Representative Colin Allred are intensifying their campaigns with a whirlwind of travel across Texas as they approach the election’s conclusion. Both candidates are making strong appeals to voters in one of the nation’s most financially demanding contests.
Cruz, who is defending his seat after nearly winning a second term in the 2018 elections, is emphasizing conservative commitments, particularly regarding stricter border policies. He has also focused on criticizing pro-transgender initiatives, as evidenced by his recent rally outside San Antonio.
On the other hand, Allred, who seeks to make history as Texas’ first Black senator, is actively courting voters in Houston, the largest city in the state and a key Democratic stronghold. In a rally at Texas Southern University, a prominent historically Black college, the three-term congressman underscored his advocacy for reproductive rights and held Cruz accountable for restricting women’s access to essential healthcare services.
While Democrats have struggled to secure statewide victories in Texas for decades, emerging signs of a tighter race have sparked hope that 2024 might mark a breakthrough moment. The stakes are high as Democrats aim to flip a seat, especially as they defend a greater number of Senate seats compared to Republicans across the country.
A surprise victory for Allred would significantly strengthen Democratic chances of maintaining a narrow Senate majority. The battle has attracted over $160 million in fundraising for both candidates combined, with Democrats announcing a $5 million advertising initiative focused on women’s reproductive rights.
During his campaign, Allred has called upon voters to move beyond the divisive political climate and support leaders committed to constructive outcomes. “I don’t spend my time throwing bombs,” he stated, emphasizing that achieving bipartisanship is vital to effective governance.
Meanwhile, about 250 miles to the west, Cruz positioned himself as the sensible choice for voters, declaring, “This is no longer a battle between Republicans and Democrats. This is a battle between sane and crazy.” Surrounded by supporters in Jourdanton, Cruz delivered a robust 40-minute address from a pickup truck, framing the contest as a clash between established values and progressive changes.
The competition has garnered substantial attention and funding, as Allred aims to unseat Cruz and accomplish what no Democrat has in 30 years: winning a statewide election in Texas. Cruz has sought to associate Allred with Vice President Kamala Harris on issues such as immigration and economic policies. Despite Texas having some of the strictest abortion laws in the country, Cruz has mostly steered clear of the topic.
Cruz won a narrow victory against Democratic opponent Beto O’Rourke in 2018, leading many Democrats to see this race as an opportunity to leverage changing demographics and an incumbent who is increasingly unpopular. Local resident Sarah Brietzke, however, expressed skepticism regarding Cruz’s potential loss, stating, “I would be surprised.”
While Allred has been attempting to connect with moderate voters through a less flashy, issue-focused campaign—primarily on reproductive rights—the 2022 Supreme Court decision to revoke federal abortion protections remains a pivotal issue for many voters.
Allred’s campaign recently resumed its high-profile engagements, responding to criticism for previously downplaying large rallies. He underscored his determination to secure support from Black voters, a traditional base for Democratic candidates, during a Houston rally where he argued Cruz’s vision for Texas is too limited.
Cruz’s out-of-state trip during a deadly winter storm in 2021 has also come under scrutiny, as Allred highlighted this as part of his critique against the incumbent. As the race continues, Allred maintains that he would advocate for all Texans while seeking collaboration with Republicans.
Young voter Kamerin Joseph expressed his preference for Allred, citing the congressman’s commitment to women’s reproductive rights as critical. “That is a very big one for me,” he noted, reflecting on the personal stories of women facing difficult health decisions.
Through grassroots efforts and engagement, Joseph feels a palpable shift in public sentiment, declaring, “I genuinely feel that we’re going to turn Texas blue this year.” He believes that many Texans are ready to see Cruz replaced by Allred.