Texas

Texas is on the DLCC’s 2026 Target Map.

Texas is one of the most important power-building opportunities in the country — and one of the clearest examples of why state legislative elections matter.

Last summer, Texas Republicans launched the opening of a national effort to manipulate congressional maps and protect Republican power in Washington. Their mid-decade redistricting push became a blueprint for Republicans looking to lock in a U.S. House majority before the next census. At the same time, the Supreme Court’s decision in Callais weakened key protections under the Voting Rights Act, creating new opportunities for partisan map manipulation and making state legislative power more important than ever.

In 2026, Texas Democrats achieved full candidate recruitment for the Texas House for the first time in modern history, ensuring voters across the state will have a Democratic choice on the ballot. That momentum is already translating into results. Earlier this cycle, Democrat Taylor Rehmet flipped a Republican-held seat in the Fort Worth suburbs, delivering a major upset victory and demonstrating that voters are increasingly rejecting the Texas GOP’s extreme agenda.

As Republicans in Texas move further toward the extremes — highlighted by Ken Paxton’s growing influence within the party and his recent statewide primary victory — building Democratic strength in Texas is essential. Every seat Democrats gain improves our ability to push back against future power grabs, advocate for fair representation, and build the foundation for a more competitive Texas and a stronger Democratic Party nationwide.

Meet the DLCC’s Texas Target Races

The Most Competitive Races in Texas

The DLCC’s Target Races represent some of the most competitive and consequential state legislative contests in the country.

Using data, research, and direct partnerships with state legislative leaders, the DLCC identifies the races where investments can make the biggest difference in building Democratic power. These are the races that will help determine the future of the Texas Legislature and strengthen Democrats’ ability to compete statewide for years to come.

Texas House Democratic Campaign Committee Chair and Representative Christina Morales speaks to DLCC Target Races meeting the moment:

Support the candidates who are helping shape the future of Texas.