Tony Buzbee, the lead defense attorney for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton during his 2023 impeachment trial, has endorsed Democrat James Talarico in the 2026 U.S. Senate race in Texas, according to multiple reports.
Buzbee, a prominent Texas lawyer and former candidate for Houston mayor, made the endorsement public on June 8, 2026, citing Talarico's character and bipartisan appeal. Talarico, a state representative from Round Rock, is challenging incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn.
The endorsement is notable given Buzbee's Republican ties and his role defending Paxton, a conservative figure. Buzbee stated he believes Talarico would bring integrity to the Senate, though specific policy disagreements with Cornyn were not detailed.
Talarico's campaign has focused on education and healthcare, while Cornyn, seeking a fifth term, emphasizes border security and economic growth. The race is considered competitive in the Republican-leaning state.
