WASHINGTON (March 4, 2026) – In a closely watched event for one of the country’s most consequential Senate seats, State Representative James Talarico has secured the Democratic nomination against U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett. Meanwhile, on the Republican side, Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton will both advance to a May runoff after neither candidate won 50 percent of the vote. For decades, the Republicans have controlled Texas, but Democrats see an opportunity to possibly change that.
Faculty experts at the George Washington University are available to offer insight, analysis, and commentary on the results of the race. To schedule an interview with one of our experts, please reach out to Skyler Sales at skylers
gwu [dot] edu (skylers[at]gwu[dot]edu).
Debbie Mucarsel-Powell is a longtime public servant and higher education leader who has extensive experience tackling critical political and social issues throughout her career. She is the executive director of the GW Graduate School of Political Management.
Lesley Lopez is a public affairs professional with two decades of experience on Capitol Hill, campaigns, C-Suites, and newsrooms. She is a graduate of GW’s Political Management Program and, prior to her appointment as Program Director of the Public Relations and Communications Program, served as an adjunct faculty member in the program (formerly Strategic Public Relations). Professor Lopez is also currently a state delegate in the Maryland General Assembly, representing District 39, and serves as Deputy Majority Whip.
Peter Loge is an associate professor at the George Washington University School of Media and Public Affairs. Professor Loge has over 30 years of experience in politics and communications. He currently leads the Project on Ethics in Political Communication at the School of Media and Public Affairs.
Casey Burgat is a professor at the George Washington University School of Political Management. Professor Burgat is the director of the Legislative Affairs program and hosts its Mastering the Room podcast. Prior to joining GW, Burgat was a Senior Governance Fellow at the R Street Institute, where his research focused on issues of congressional capacity and reform.
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