Dan Cogdell Endorses Talarico in Texas Senate Race

Houston attorney Dan Cogdell endorsed Democratic nominee James Talarico for U.S. Senate on June 8. Cogdell represented Republican nominee Ken Paxton in his 2023 impeachment trial and other cases for nearly a decade. The general election is set for November 3, and recent surveys show a tight contest with Talarico ahead in some polls.

Cogdell represented Paxton through acquittal and fraud cases

Cogdell handled Paxton's defense in the Texas Senate impeachment trial that ended in acquittal. He also represented the attorney general in securities fraud matters. The lawyer stated the Constitution does not require him to endorse or vote for a former client.

Paxton defeated incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff. President Trump endorsed Paxton for the general election. Talarico secured the Democratic nomination without a contested primary.

Criticism centers on Paxton's focus and mission

Cogdell said Paxton has lost sight of his core mission of representing the people of Texas. The attorney added that Paxton appears too focused on appeasing or following Trump. Cogdell called Talarico the stronger candidate because he favors unity over division and can build support across party lines.

These comments come from a lawyer who worked closely with Paxton on high-profile legal matters. The shift highlights a break from a long professional relationship rather than a broad political realignment.

Race remains competitive heading into fall

Ballotpedia lists Paxton as the Republican nominee and Talarico as the Democratic nominee for the open Senate seat. Recent polling from Texas Public Opinion Research shows Talarico leading slightly in some surveys, though the margin stays narrow.

The endorsement adds a notable voice to Talarico's campaign from someone familiar with Paxton's legal record. It does not alter the structural advantages each side holds in a state that has favored Republicans in recent Senate contests.

November 3 general election sets next deadline

Voters will decide the race on November 3, 2026. Both campaigns continue to organize in the months leading to that date. No further primary contests remain on the calendar.