Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett of Texas officially launched a bid for the U.S. Senate, filing candidacy paperwork in Dallas on Monday and announcing her entry into one of the most closely watched races ahead of the midterms.
Crockett acknowledged the difficulty of the task — no Democrat has won a statewide race in Texas in more than three decades — but expressed optimism about her chances and argued she could amplify Texans’ concerns in Washington. “There are a lot of people that said, you gotta stay in the House… But what we need is for me to have a bigger voice,” she said, adding that her aim is to “stop all the hell that is raining down on all of our people.”
Her candidacy has prompted quick responses from Republican operatives, who view Crockett as vulnerable and a target because of her vocal opposition to former President Donald Trump. Crockett was active on the campaign trail during the 2024 presidential cycle and publicly defended President Biden after last year’s high-profile debate. The Republican National Committee released a critical statement saying Crockett’s “shenanigans are an embarrassment to Texas,” and adding, “Everything’s bigger in Texas, except for her ability to win this race.”
Crockett joins a field vying for the seat as national and state parties weigh the strategic importance of the contest. Democrats see an opportunity to contest a statewide race in Texas, while Republicans aim to capitalize on Crockett’s national profile and past comments. CBS News reporter Shawna Mizelle, reporting from Dallas, noted the campaign’s energy and the likely intensity of advertising and fundraising in what could become one of the costliest Senate races this cycle.
CBS News will continue to monitor the race and report on developments as campaigns formalize platforms, endorsements and fundraising strategies leading into the midterm elections.