Who won the primaries in Texas is one of the biggest political questions after voters across the state headed to the polls on March 3, 2026. These primary elections determined which Democratic and Republican candidates will represent their parties in the November general election for major offices including U.S. Senate, governor, congressional seats, and statewide positions.
The results revealed decisive victories, notable political shifts, and a crucial Republican runoff that will shape the final Senate matchup later this year.
Overview of the 2026 Texas Primary Elections
Texas primaries play a major role in determining the candidates who will compete in the general election. Because Texas is one of the largest and most politically influential states, these races often attract national attention.
Several candidates secured outright wins in their primaries. In other contests, no candidate achieved a majority, forcing runoff elections.
Major Primary Winners
The following candidates emerged as confirmed winners in their respective races:
- James Talarico – Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate
- Gina Hinojosa – Democratic nominee for Texas governor
- Don Huffines – Republican nominee for Texas comptroller
- Steve Toth – Republican nominee for Texas’ 2nd Congressional District
- Mark Teixeira – Republican nominee for Texas’ 21st Congressional District
- Henry Cuellar – Democratic nominee for Texas’ 28th Congressional District
- Nathan Sheets – Republican nominee for Texas agriculture commissioner
These candidates will advance to the November 3, 2026 general election.
U.S. Senate Primary Results
One of the most closely followed races helped answer who won the primaries in Texas for the U.S. Senate seat.
Democratic Senate Primary
Texas State Representative James Talarico won the Democratic primary after defeating U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett. Talarico secured approximately 52.8% of the vote, which allowed him to win the nomination without a runoff.
His campaign centered on economic opportunity, education investment, and building broader statewide support among voters.
With the primary victory, Talarico becomes the Democratic candidate for the Texas Senate race in November.
Republican Senate Primary Runoff
The Republican Senate primary did not produce an outright winner.
Two candidates will compete in a May 26, 2026 runoff election:
- John Cornyn, the current U.S. senator
- Ken Paxton, the Texas attorney general
Because neither candidate crossed the 50% threshold required by Texas election law, the runoff will determine the Republican nominee.
The winner of that contest will face Talarico in the general election.
Democratic Governor Primary Winner
Another important result emerged in the Democratic primary for governor.
Gina Hinojosa, a Texas state representative and former state party chair, won the Democratic nomination for governor. Her victory positions her to challenge Republican Governor Greg Abbott in November.
During the campaign, Hinojosa focused on several major issues:
- improving public education funding
- expanding healthcare access across Texas
- protecting voting rights
- supporting economic growth for working families
The governor’s race is expected to draw national attention as the election approaches.
Key Congressional Primary Results
Texas voters also decided several competitive congressional primaries.
Steve Toth Defeats Dan Crenshaw
One of the most surprising outcomes occurred in the Republican primary for Texas’ 2nd Congressional District.
State Representative Steve Toth defeated incumbent Congressman Dan Crenshaw, ending Crenshaw’s time in Congress after multiple terms.
The result highlighted shifting dynamics within the Republican electorate in Texas.
Mark Teixeira Wins GOP Congressional Nomination
Former Major League Baseball player Mark Teixeira secured the Republican nomination in Texas’ 21st Congressional District.
Teixeira won more than 60% of the vote, giving him a strong position heading into the general election in a district that traditionally favors Republicans.
South Texas Congressional Race
In South Texas, Henry Cuellar won the Democratic primary for Texas’ 28th Congressional District.
Cuellar captured roughly 58% of the vote, avoiding a runoff. His victory ensures he will remain the Democratic nominee for the district in the upcoming general election.
The longtime congressman emphasized experience and economic development throughout his campaign.
Statewide Primary Outcomes
Beyond congressional races, voters also decided nominations for several statewide offices.
Texas Comptroller
Former state senator Don Huffines won the Republican primary for Texas comptroller. His campaign focused on reducing government spending and strengthening fiscal accountability.
Huffines will face Sarah Eckhardt, the Democratic nominee, in November.
Agriculture Commissioner
In the Republican primary for agriculture commissioner, Nathan Sheets defeated incumbent Sid Miller. The victory marked a significant upset and ended Miller’s time in statewide office.
Sheets will compete against Democratic nominee Clayton Tucker in the general election.
Key Dates in the Texas Election Cycle
While the primary results decided many nominations, the election season is not over.
Here are the next important dates for Texas voters:
| Election Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Republican Senate Runoff | May 26, 2026 |
| General Election | November 3, 2026 |
The Senate runoff will finalize the Republican nominee before the general election campaign intensifies.
Why the Texas Primaries Are Important
Texas remains one of the most influential political battlegrounds in the United States. Its large population and numerous congressional districts give it significant national impact.
The candidates who won their primaries now begin preparing for competitive general election campaigns. Their races will determine control of key offices and shape political debates heading into 2026 and beyond.
The results also provide insight into voter priorities and party dynamics across the state.
Understanding who won the primaries in Texas helps explain how the political landscape is developing ahead of November’s decisive election.
What are your thoughts on the Texas primary results? Share your opinion in the comments and stay tuned for more updates as the election season continues.