Jasmine Crockett considers joining Texas Senate race contenders

As speculation intensifies over whether Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett will launch a bid for the U.S. Senate, she has confirmed that she has reached out to some of the candidates already in the race.

Crockett, who represents much of Dallas in the House, announced earlier that she will make a special announcement in Dallas at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, just 90 minutes before the states deadline for filing campaign paperwork. I cannot confirm what I will be announcing, she told CBS News on Thursday.

However, Crockett admitted contacting several current candidates last Sunday to discuss polling data she had gathered and to answer any questions they might have.

At 44, Crockett has gained national attention and built a robust fundraising network in less than four years in Congress, aided by her frequent appearances on cable news and an active social media presence that highlights her clashes with Republican lawmakers during committee hearings. She has not ruled out a Senate run next year and has indicated she would only proceed if polling shows she could win by expanding voter turnout and attracting new voters.

Other Democratic contenders include former Dallas Representative Colin Allred and Texas state Representative James Talarico of Austin, both aiming to secure the nomination to challenge the Republican nominee. On the GOP side, Senator John Cornyn faces primary challenges from Representative Wesley Hunt and Attorney General Ken Paxton.

A University of Houston and Texas Southern University poll conducted from late September to October 1 showed Crockett leading a hypothetical Democratic primary with 31%, while Talarico and former Representative Beto ORourke, who is not running, were tied at 25%. Allred had 13%, with 6% undecided. In a general election scenario, the poll suggested Republicans Cornyn, Hunt, and Paxton would defeat Crockett, with other Democratic candidates trailing similarly.

Talarico reportedly called Crockett over the weekend, though no polling data was exchanged. Allred had not responded to inquiries by Thursday evening.

One Democratic lawmaker observing the race stated that Crockett has been sharing internal polling with other contenders, indicating an early lead. Its challenging for the others; she is popular with the Democratic base, the lawmaker said on condition of anonymity. Based on the polling Ive seen, she would be in a strong position if she decides to run. A few months ago, I wasnt convinced, but now the odds look better than average.

Another Democratic strategist tracking the potential Senate race noted that while Crockett could perform strongly in a Democratic primary, winning statewide against the eventual Republican nominee could be difficult. If she enters the race, Id say Beltway consultants are encouraging her, because statewide victory is unlikely, the strategist commented.

Author: Grace Ellison