Summary
Overview
With one week until the midterm elections, hosts Katty Kay and Anthony Scaramucci analyze the unexpectedly competitive Texas Senate race where Democrat James Tallarico holds a narrow lead over Republican Ken Paxton. They examine the massive financial investment in the race, particularly Elon Musk's $180 million contribution, Trump's rally appearances, and the broader implications for American democracy. The discussion explores whether anti-Trump sentiment and economic concerns can overcome Republican structural advantages in red states.
The Texas Senate Race Heats Up
Donald Trump held two rallies in deep red Texas attempting to rescue Ken Paxton's Senate campaign, while Democratic challenger James Tallarico held his own rally just miles away attacking Trump's policies and Elon Musk's influence. The race has become the most expensive Senate contest in American history, with Republicans pouring nearly half a billion dollars into keeping a seat they shouldn't have to defend. Despite Tallarico holding a narrow 2-6 point lead in polls, both hosts express concern about whether Democrats can actually flip a state that hasn't elected a Democratic senator since 1988.
- Trump held two rallies in Texas (Corpus Christi and Lubbock) to support Ken Paxton, while Tallarico held a counter-rally attacking Trump's tariffs and Elon Musk
- Tallarico leads by 2-6 points in polls, with one showing 48% Tallarico to 46% Paxton - within margin of error
- Democrats have been roughly two points away from winning Texas since 1988, the last time they elected a senator (Lloyd Bentsen)
- Both rallies drew about 4,000 people, though in an area Trump had won handily three times
" I don't think his ass is muscular enough for Donald Trump. And so he's in the gym right now somewhere in Dallas doing some squats. "
The Latino Vote and Trump's Favorability
The hosts identify Latino voters as the biggest swing demographic in these midterms, with double-digit drops in Republican support compared to 2024. However, they note the concerning statistic that Trump maintains a 46% favorability rating in Texas - 16 points higher than his national average. This creates a complex dynamic where economic concerns and the Iran war may drive Latino voters away from Republicans, but Trump's personal popularity in the state remains surprisingly strong.
- Latino voters show the biggest swing of any demographic group, with double-digit drops in Republican support since 2024
- Trump's favorability rating in Texas is 46%, about 16 points higher than his national average
- The Iran war is driving up gas and diesel prices, which hurts Republicans with voters who drive frequently in Texas
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