In South Texas, Paxton tests the limits of Trump’s Hispanic coalition

In South Texas, Republican Senatorial candidate Ken Paxton is attempting to capitalize on the political momentum left behind by former President Donald Trump, particularly among Hispanic voters. At a recent campaign rally in McAllen, just miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, Paxton addressed a crowd largely composed of Latino supporters, emphasizing themes of border security and cultural conservatism. His strategy appears to focus on leveraging Trump’s legacy while avoiding direct criticism of the economic consequences of Trump’s immigration policies, which have significantly impacted the region. The event took place at a beer hall in the sweltering heat of 100-degree temperatures, drawing attendees wearing MAGA red and some sporting Trump 2028 campaign merchandise. Paxton joined fellow candidates in attacking Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico, labeling him a “gay vegan” and “low T” during a speech. He also mocked Talarico for identifying as a “Christian who hates Christianity,” a jab aimed at Talarico’s background as a seminarian and his opposition to Christian nationalism. Paxton’s remarks reflect a broader Republican strategy to appeal to Hispanic voters by focusing on cultural issues rather than economic concerns. After the rally, he told reporters that once Hispanic voters learn about Talarico’s stance on gender transitions and sports, they would reject his candidacy. This approach mirrors past efforts by Texas Republicans, such as Senator Ted Cruz’s attacks on former Representative Colin Allred regarding transgender youth in sports and the branding of Wendy Davis as “abortion Barbie.” However, the economic toll of Trump’s immigration policies is evident in the Rio Grande Valley, where industries reliant on immigrant labor, such as construction, have suffered due to increased deportations. Local businesses have also felt the strain, with reduced cross-border traffic affecting retail and restaurant sectors. These challenges have created opportunities for Democratic candidates like Talarico and gubernatorial nominee Gina Hinojosa, who emphasize economic stability and healthcare access. Democratic state Senator Juan Hinojosa, whose district includes McAllen, noted that Talarico’s focus on family-oriented issues has resonated with voters. “Democrats get sidetracked on all these cultural issues, and they need to stay focused on what I call the bread butter issues, issues that impact families directly, the kitchen table issues,” he said. Hinojosa urged Democrats to avoid falling into the trap set by Paxton and instead highlight practical concerns facing residents. The economic strain in the region is palpable, with visible signs of decline in McAllen. Construction projects remain incomplete, and local businesses struggle with reduced customer traffic. The situation extends beyond McAllen, with cities like Laredo, a major trade hub, expressing concern over potential damage to international commerce due to Trump’s tariff policies and threats to the USMCA trade agreement. As the election approaches, the battle for Hispanic voter support continues to shape the political landscape in Texas. While Paxton seeks to maintain the momentum from Trump’s base, Democratic candidates aim to counteract the economic pressures caused by current policies. The outcome of this contest could influence not only the Senate race but also broader political dynamics in the state.