Senator Ted Cruz is likely breathing a bit easier right now. In a shocking upset, a Republican state senate candidate managed to win a seat that had long been held by Democrats, putting the prospect of a “blue wave” in Texas in doubt. Republican businessman Pete Flores managed to defeat former congressman and Democratic candidate Pete Gallego by a solid six points.
The state senate seat in question had been held by Democrats since the 19th century. Spanning from San Antonio to Big Bend National Park, the district has long been regarded as one of the safest seats for Democrats in the state. Democrats on the ground are reporting that Gallego had seemingly taken the race for granted and did little to turn out the Latino vote.
The seat was vacated when Democrat Carlos Uresti was convicted of 11 felonies. Flores will serve out the remainder of Uresti’s term, which runs for two years and three months. Uresti will be spending that time and then some in jail, serving a 12-year sentence.
For Republicans, the shocking victory raises hope that they will be able to break any blue wave threatening to wash over the solidly red state. Senator Ted Cruz has found himself in a particularly difficult race, with Democrat challenger Beto O’Rourke tying and even leading Cruz in some polls. Some polls show O’Rourke having a slight lead over Cruz, while others suggest Cruz has a slight lead. Most of the poll results are within the margin of error.
Texans haven’t sent a Democrat to the Senate since the early 1990s. O’Rourke’s popularity among Texans is particularly noteworthy as he’s running with a left-wing progressive agenda rather than a centrist Democrat platform. O’Rourke has embraced illegal immigrants, wants to dramatically expand access to healthcare, and favors increased vetting for potential gun owners. Based on history, one wouldn’t think that this platform would appeal to Texans, but O’Rourke’s personal gravitas and ideas are drawing an immense amount of support.
