The Daily Punch Readback: My Texas trip takeaways
Feb 21, 2026
Allie Mutnick, a Congressional reporter who spent four days on the ground in Texas. She recounts driving between cities, contrasts on-the-ground energy with DC impressions, describes big Democratic turnouts and smaller GOP events, breaks down Tallarico vs Crockett dynamics, and outlines Paxton’s durable base and runoff math. Fun trail anecdotes and a lost Kindle finish the story.
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Reporting Is Mostly Driving
- Allie Mutnick drove across Texas for nearly four days, visiting Dallas, Tyler, Waco, Austin and DFW.
- She emphasizes most reporting in Texas involves long drives rather than glamour.
Democrats Show Strong Event Energy
- Both Democratic Senate candidates pulled massive crowds, signaling strong grassroots energy.
- Tallarico benefited from high-profile publicity and about a thousand people at an Austin rally.
Crockett's Name ID Drives Turnout
- Jasmine Crockett drew nearly 700 people to a Thursday morning church event in Fort Worth, showing high name recognition.
- High midweek turnout suggests Crockett starts the primary as the favorite among Democrats.
