The NPR Politics Podcast Democrats had record turnout in Texas’ Senate primary. Can they flip the seat?
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Mar 13, 2026 Record Democratic turnout in Texas primaries and its implications for a pivotal Senate match. A deep look at Latino voter surges and whether momentum could reshape statewide politics. Discussion of stalled Homeland Security funding and how it has snarled airport security. Conversation about rising Islamophobia and anti-Semitism in political rhetoric. A lighthearted sports and phone mix-up segment wraps things up.
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Latino Turnout Shift Could Reconfigure Texas Politics
- Latino voters in key Texas counties showed a strong rebound for Democrats in the primary, suggesting shifting Latino electorate dynamics.
- Domenico measured a 126% turnout increase in the top 10 districts that are at least 50% Latino compared with 2024 presidential year turnout.
Multiple Signals Point To Democratic Enthusiasm
- Multiple signals pile up pointing to Democratic enthusiasm and favorable midterm conditions, including polls and special election overperformance.
- Domenico notes rising Democratic interest in NBC polling and repeat overperformance in special and 2025 elections.
Watch Trump's Endorsement As A Vote Mover In Texas
- Republicans need to watch Trump's endorsement calculus because his backing could determine which nominee energizes the base in the Senate race.
- Tamara notes Trump teased endorsing in Paxton vs. Cornyn but hasn't, while ad buys target Trump's Florida weekend market.