The Texas Senate race is seeing some major shifts as a prominent donor who previously backed Ken Paxton is now throwing his support behind Democratic challenger James Talarico, Newsweek reports. Thomas J. Henry, the well-known founder of Thomas J. Henry Law, shared his new endorsement in a video posted to X on Wednesday night.
Henry had previously put a lot of money into the race, with his firm donating over $600,000 to a super PAC supporting Paxton during the Republican primary. In his video, Henry explained that he initially supported Paxton because he wanted to see a change from incumbent John Cornyn, noting his belief that politicians should not serve endless terms. However, after learning more about Paxton and meeting with Talarico, Henry decided to switch sides. “I’m Thomas J. Henry. I’m here to announce my support for James Talarico for United States Senator from Texas,” he said.
Henry noted that his meeting with Talarico, who is a state lawmaker and former teacher, was key to this change of heart. He described Talarico’s approach as “balanced, straightforward, and honest.” According to Henry, the conversation covered everything from national security to the economy. “Whether it was the security of our country or the economics of our state and our country, James has a balanced approach to trying to solve those problems for all of us,” he said.
If Talarico manages to pull off a win, he would be the first Democrat to win a statewide race in Texas in 32 years
While some recent polls have shown Talarico with a narrow lead, a new poll from Wednesday suggested the race is now tied at 49 percent. Henry is not the only person with Republican ties to back Talarico.
On Tuesday, Neil Bush, who is the brother of former president George W. Bush, shared that he voted for Talarico. In a post on Facebook, Bush mentioned that he has been a Republican for most of his life but felt that character matters more than party affiliation.
Bush specifically pointed to his concerns regarding Paxton’s record, including his impeachment and acquittal. “I see in him the qualities I admire most in public servants: integrity, civility, humility, and a willingness to listen to those with whom he disagrees,” Bush wrote regarding Talarico.
Other Republican figures have also joined the movement. Former Illinois congressman Adam Kinzinger, who now lives in Texas, voiced his support for Talarico at a campaign event in Houston on Wednesday. Wayne Thorburn, a former executive director of the Texas Republican Party, also recently revealed he is backing Talarico. Thorburn mentioned that he is focused on the character of the candidates in this particular race.
Talarico’s campaign has been highlighting this support, with the candidate stating on X that he is working to bring Texans together to focus on the needs of working people. “Because the real fight in this country isn’t left versus right—it’s top versus bottom,” Talarico wrote.
Published: Oct 22, 2026 11:30 am